Beech Lake (Upper) Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beech Lake (Upper) Dam, located in Henderson, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1965 for recreational purposes on Featherstone Creek.


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Summary

The dam has a hydraulic height of 14.4 feet and a structural height of 23.3 feet, with a length of 500 feet and a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The dam is inspected regularly and deemed to be in satisfactory condition, with a significant hazard potential.

The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 4.2 acres and a normal storage capacity of 10 acre-feet. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam is subject to inspections and meets safety guidelines. In case of emergency, the dam has emergency action plans in place, although details on their preparedness and risk management measures are not specified. The dam is a notable feature in the city of Grimesdale, providing a scenic and recreational spot for visitors and water resource enthusiasts to enjoy.

Overall, Beech Lake (Upper) Dam stands as a significant structure in the area, serving both practical and recreational purposes. Its construction and maintenance reflect a commitment to safety and enjoyment for those who utilize its resources. With its picturesque location and solid condition, the dam remains a valuable asset for the community and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

Featherstone Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Hydraulic Height

14.4

Drainage Area

250

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

23.3

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.