Thorpe Lake Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thorpe Lake Dam #1, also known as Glenville Dam, is a rockfill dam located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, along the Tuckasegee River.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this hydroelectric dam stands at a structural height of 150 feet and has a hydraulic height of 140 feet. With a storage capacity of 70,800 acre-feet and a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power, this dam plays a crucial role in providing renewable energy to the region.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Thorpe Lake Dam #1 poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location. The dam has not been rated for its condition, but it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. While the dam does not have outlet gates or associated structures, its impressive length of 11,743 feet showcases the scale of this important water resource infrastructure in Jackson County. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thorpe Lake Dam #1 serves as a fascinating example of early 20th-century hydroelectric engineering and the ongoing importance of sustainable energy production from water resources.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

11743

River Or Stream

Tuckasegee River

Hydraulic Height

140

Nid Storage

70800

Structural Height

150

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

150
       
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.