Cedar Cliff - 2 Fuseplugs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Cliff - 2 Fuseplugs, located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, is a key structure along the East Fork Tuckasegee River designed for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a length of 221.3 feet, providing a storage capacity of 6200 acre-feet. The dam boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 221 feet, ensuring proper water management in times of high discharge.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cedar Cliff - 2 Fuseplugs has a high hazard potential and is rated as having a very high risk level. While the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in September 2020. Despite the lack of state jurisdiction, this dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management and climate considerations.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cedar Cliff - 2 Fuseplugs serves as a fascinating example of the intersection between energy production and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and efficient design, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with ecological preservation in the face of changing weather patterns and growing water demands. The ongoing oversight and risk management measures ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential infrastructure for years to come.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

221.3

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

East Fork Tuckasegee River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

121

Nid Storage

6200

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

18
       
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.