Dicks Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dicks Creek Dam, located in Macon County, North Carolina, is a vital hydroelectric structure managed by a public utility.


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Summary

Completed in 1942, this rockfill dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 109 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 126,000 acre-feet. The dam serves as a key component in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's oversight, ensuring its safe operation and compliance with regulations.

With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is inspected regularly by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to maintain its structural integrity. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, utilizing an uncontrolled spillway and multi-arch core design. Even though it is not state-regulated, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and contributes to the local hydroelectric power supply in the region.

Situated in the scenic Nantahala area near the Dicks Creek, this hydroelectric marvel stands as a testament to engineering and sustainable energy production. Despite its age, Dicks Creek Dam continues to provide valuable services while prioritizing safety and environmental considerations in its operations. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of technology, nature, and energy production.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

109

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Dicks Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1605

Nid Storage

126000

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
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.