Cedar Cliff - Spillway Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Cliff Spillway is a crucial infrastructure located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, along the East Fork Tuckasegee River.


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Summary

Built in 1952, this concrete dam stands at a height of 25 feet and serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a storage capacity of 6200 acre-feet and a surface area of 121 acres, Cedar Cliff Spillway plays a significant role in water resource management and energy production in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Cedar Cliff Spillway has a controlled spillway type with a width of 25 feet and is equipped with a Tainter (radial) outlet gate. The dam has a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures. Despite its condition assessment being listed as "not available," Cedar Cliff Spillway remains a critical piece of infrastructure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts, contributing to the sustainability and resilience of the local ecosystem.

As an integral part of the Nashville District and owned by a Public Utility, Cedar Cliff Spillway represents a blend of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship. Its location in the picturesque Jackson County, North Carolina, underscores the intersection of human ingenuity with natural beauty, making it a site of interest for those passionate about water resources and climate resilience. With its hydroelectric capabilities and strategic design, Cedar Cliff Spillway stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of infrastructure and ecology in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

25

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

East Fork Tuckasegee River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

121

Nid Storage

6200

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

25
       
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.