Trout Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trout Lake Dam, also known as Lake Ravenwood Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Tuckaseegee, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1952, this earth dam is primarily used for recreational purposes and is situated on the Raven Fork river. With a hydraulic height of 25.7 feet and a structural height of 29 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 62 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 82 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7.5 acres.

Despite its recreational purpose, Trout Lake Dam has been classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment. Regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program ensure that the dam meets state regulatory standards for safety and enforcement. The last inspection in March 2021 revealed the dam's condition and hazard potential, prompting the need for continued monitoring and potentially implementing risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats to the surrounding community and environment.

As a key feature in the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Trout Lake Dam's management and maintenance are crucial for ensuring public safety and environmental protection. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam's location on the Raven Fork river provides a unique opportunity to study the impact of human-made structures on local hydrology and ecology. Ongoing efforts to improve the dam's condition and safety standards will be essential in preserving the recreational and environmental values associated with this important water resource in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

169

River Or Stream

Raven Fork

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

25.7

Drainage Area

452

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.