East Fork (Tannasee Creek) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Located in Jackson, North Carolina, the East Fork (Tannasee Creek) hydroelectric dam stands as a testament to modern engineering ingenuity.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this Earth-type dam boasts a height of 140 feet and a length of 385 feet, harnessing the power of the East Fork Tuckasegee River to generate hydroelectric power. With a storage capacity of 1340 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 70200 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in the region's water resource management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the East Fork (Tannasee Creek) dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential due to its very high risk assessment rating, emergency preparedness is a top priority for this dam. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate efficiently, serving as a vital component in the local water infrastructure and contributing to the region's renewable energy goals.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the East Fork (Tannasee Creek) dam serves as a fascinating example of sustainable energy production and water management. With its controlled spillway and radial outlet gates, this dam is a key player in the region's hydroelectric power generation. As efforts to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions continue to gain momentum, structures like the East Fork dam highlight the importance of utilizing renewable energy sources and implementing effective water resource management practices.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

East Fork Tuckasegee

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

140

Drainage Area

24.9

Nid Storage

1340

Structural Height

140

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

140
       
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.