Cedar Cliff Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Cliff, a hydroelectric dam located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure on the East Fork Tuckasegee River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952, this Earth dam boasts a height of 173 feet and a length of 590 feet, providing storage of up to 6,200 acre-feet of water. With a maximum discharge of 70,000 cubic feet per second, Cedar Cliff serves as a significant source of renewable energy in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cedar Cliff is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a controlled design and width of 246 feet, helps regulate water flow and prevent flooding downstream. Despite being categorized as high hazard potential, Cedar Cliff has not had a recent condition assessment available, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Cedar Cliff for its role in generating clean hydroelectric power and its contribution to water storage in the area. The dam's location in Jackson County, North Carolina, combined with its significant storage capacity, highlights its importance in water resource management and energy production. As a key infrastructure in the region, Cedar Cliff stands as a testament to the intersection of water management, renewable energy, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

173

River Or Stream

East Fork Tuckasegee River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

121

Drainage Area

81

Nid Storage

6200

Structural Height

173

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

173
       
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.