Nantahala Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Nantahala is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Macon, North Carolina, on the picturesque Nantahala River.


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Summary

Built in 1942, this rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 250 feet and spans a length of 1042 feet, providing a storage capacity of 126,000 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 1605 acres. With a maximum discharge capacity of 54,800 cubic feet per second, Nantahala plays a crucial role in generating clean energy and managing water resources in the region.

Operated by a Public Utility, Nantahala is under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, ensuring compliance with inspection and safety standards. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance. With its controlled spillway and four Tainter (radial) outlet gates, Nantahala is equipped to handle emergencies and mitigate risks effectively, further emphasizing its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Nantahala's strategic location and design make it a key player in North Carolina's energy infrastructure, contributing to the state's renewable energy goals and water management strategies. With its rich history dating back to the early 20th century, Nantahala stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering excellence, serving as a vital resource for both energy production and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

1042

Dam Height

250

River Or Stream

Nantahala River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1605

Drainage Area

108

Nid Storage

126000

Structural Height

250

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

250
       
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.