East Fork (Tannasee Creek) - Saddle Dike Fuse Plug Reservoir Report

Reservoir Report

North Carolina

Nearby: E. Fork (Tannasee Creek) Dam Gated Spillway 2 Fuse Plugs East Fork (Tannasee Creek)

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The East Fork (Tannasee Creek) - Saddle Dike Fuse Plug is a vital structure located in Tuckasegee, NC, designed for hydroelectric purposes.

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Summary

Completed in 1955, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 1340 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 225 feet and a controlled spillway type, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential hazards.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this dike fuse plug has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The associated structures, including NC00335S002 and NC00335S004, work together to support the primary dam in its hydroelectric operations. With a risk assessment rating of Very High (1), the East Fork - Saddle Dike Fuse Plug stands as a key component in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the East Fork - Saddle Dike Fuse Plug offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and emergency preparedness. With its long history of service and commitment to public safety, this structure exemplifies the importance of proactive risk management and regulatory oversight in maintaining the integrity of critical water resources. Explore the complexities and challenges of dam operations in the context of changing climate patterns, and appreciate the essential role that structures like the East Fork - Saddle Dike Fuse Plug play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems for generations to come.

Year Completed	1955
Dam Length	225
Dam Height	25
River Or Stream	East Fork Tuckasegee
Primary Dam Type	Earth
Surface Area	40
Hydraulic Height	25
Nid Storage	1340
Structural Height	25
Hazard Potential	High
Foundations	Rock
Nid Height	25

Explore Interactive Map

EAST FORK (TANNASEE CREEK) - SADDLE DIKE FUSE PLUG

Reservoir Report • Water Levels • Weather Forecast

December 5, 2025

Year_Completed	1955
Dam_Length	225
Dam_Height	25
River_Or_Stream	East Fork Tuckasegee
Primary_Dam_Type	Earth
Surface_Area	40
Hydraulic_Height	25
Nid_Storage	1340
Structural_Height	25
Hazard_Potential	High
Foundations	Rock
Nid_Height	25

Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Nearby Streamflow Levels

Tuckasegee River At Sr 1172 Nr Cullowhee 142.0cfs	142cfs
French Broad River At Rosman 118.0cfs	118cfs
W F Pigeon R Above Lake Logan Nr Hazelwood 71.9cfs	72cfs
West Fork Pigeon River Near Retreat 36.4cfs	36cfs
Davidson River Near Brevard 64.4cfs	64cfs
W Fk Pigeon R At Bethel 91.9cfs	92cfs

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.