Swiss Pine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Swiss Pine Lake Dam, located in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1961, stands at a structural height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 87 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres. Its reservoir is fed by Graveyard Creek and can discharge a maximum of 1400 cubic feet per second.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2017, Swiss Pine Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential. This categorization underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. The structure is under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, which conducts state permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities to mitigate risks associated with the dam.

In the event of an emergency, it is crucial for the owners and stakeholders of Swiss Pine Lake Dam to have an updated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared and in place. While the last revision of the EAP dates back to October 2009, the dam remains a focal point for risk assessment and management measures. With its picturesque setting and recreational significance, Swiss Pine Lake Dam serves as both a vital water resource and a potential area of concern that demands proactive monitoring and response protocols.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

750

River Or Stream

Graveyard Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

124

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.