Fontana Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fontana Dam, located in North Carolina along the Little Tennessee River, is a remarkable feat of engineering and a key feature of the Tennessee Valley Authority's flood risk reduction efforts.


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Summary

Completed in 1944, this concrete gravity dam stands at an impressive height of 455 feet, with a structural height of 480 feet and a length of 2365 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves as a hydroelectric power source, aids in navigation, supports recreation, and provides water supply.

The dam's reservoir, Fontana Lake, has a normal storage capacity of 1,370,253 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 1,552,689 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 10,290 acres. With a drainage area of 1571 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 189,000 cubic feet per second, Fontana Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring flood control in the region. Over the years, it has undergone several modifications and inspections to enhance its structural integrity and operational efficiency, reflecting the commitment to maintaining a high level of safety and performance.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Fontana Dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness efforts help mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. The dam's controlled spillway, Tainter radial outlet gates, and regular inspections contribute to its overall resilience and ability to withstand various challenges. As a significant landmark in water resource management and climate resilience, Fontana Dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the environment and supporting sustainable development in the region.

Years Modified

1973 - Seismic, 1973 - Structural, 1976 - Structural, 1983 - Structural, 1999 - Seismic, 1999 - Structural, 2000 - Structural, 2003 - Hydraulic, 2019 - Structural, 2021 - Structural

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

2365

Dam Height

455

River Or Stream

LITTLE TENNESSEE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

10290

Hydraulic Height

463

Drainage Area

1571

Nid Storage

1552689

Structural Height

480

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

480
       
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.