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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Cheoah River Nr Bearpen Gap Nr Tapoco
|
149cfs |
Little River Above Townsend
|
214cfs |
Little Tennessee River At Needmore
|
663cfs |
Tuckasegee River At Bryson City
|
1250cfs |
Little River Near Maryville
|
316cfs |
Valley River At Tomotla
|
272cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
#87 Jerry Hollow
|
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90 Lost Cove
|
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91 Upper Lost Cove
|
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93 Twentymile Creek
|
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Cable Cove
|
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Cable Cove Campground
|