Oxford Reservoir Report
Nearby: Millersville Dam Flowers Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Oxford, also known as Lake Hickory, is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1928 by the Western Carolina Power Company, this gravity-type dam stands at an impressive height of 122 feet and has a hydraulic height of 90 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 127,500 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 480,158 cubic feet per second, Oxford plays a crucial role in providing water resources and renewable energy to the region.
Situated on the Catawba River in Alexander County, North Carolina, Oxford covers a surface area of 4,110 acres and has a drainage area of 1,310 square miles. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 744 feet and ten slide (sluice gate) outlet gates. With a high hazard potential and very high risk assessment, Oxford is closely monitored by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission for inspections and operations. Although the dam's condition assessment is not available, its emergency action plan is regularly updated to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events.
Managed by a public utility, Oxford serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power for the surrounding communities. With its rich history dating back to the early 20th century, Oxford continues to be a significant landmark in North Carolina's water resource and climate conservation efforts. As a key player in the region's energy infrastructure, Oxford exemplifies the importance of sustainable water management and renewable energy production in combating climate change.
Year Completed |
1928 |
Dam Length |
1336 |
Dam Height |
122 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
4110 |
Hydraulic Height |
90 |
Drainage Area |
1310 |
Nid Storage |
127500 |
Structural Height |
89.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
122 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Oxford
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