Lupton Lake Dam, located in Sapphire, North Carolina, along the Horsepasture River, is a concrete structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Built in 1938, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a length of 300 feet. Despite its historical significance, the dam's condition has been assessed as poor, indicating the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure safety and functionality.
Owned privately, Lupton Lake Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam has a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate any risks to surrounding communities and the environment. With a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also requiring careful oversight and management to address its current condition assessment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of dams like Lupton Lake Dam is essential for ensuring the sustainable management of water resources and infrastructure. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, there is an opportunity to address the dam's poor condition and implement risk management measures to safeguard its integrity and functionality for future generations. The history and significance of Lupton Lake Dam serve as a reminder of the importance of balancing recreation with safety and environmental stewardship in water resource management.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
300 |
River Or Stream |
Horsepasture River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
69 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ralph Andrews County Park
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Bearcamp Creek Campsite
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Wintergreen Campsite
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Indian Camp Campsite
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Buck Fields
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Bear Creek Campsite
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Burrels Ford to Lick Log Branch (Section 1)