Cashiers Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cashiers Lake Dam, located in Jackson County, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26.3 feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Chattooga River-Tr. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 379 acre-feet, providing opportunities for water-based activities over its surface area of 24.8 acres.

Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, Cashiers Lake Dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in February 2021. The dam has a history of periodic inspections, with the last one conducted in early 2021. The regulatory oversight for this dam falls under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. Its proximity to Grimeshaws and its role in providing recreational opportunities make Cashiers Lake Dam a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

For those interested in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, Cashiers Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study. Its role in controlling the flow of the Chattooga River-Tr, coupled with its recreational significance, highlights the importance of maintaining and regulating dams for both safety and enjoyment. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, Cashiers Lake Dam stands as a testament to the careful balance between harnessing water resources for human use and preserving the natural environment.

Dam Length

430

River Or Stream

Chattooga River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24.8

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

672

Nid Storage

379

Structural Height

26.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.