Thorpe Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thorpe, also known as Glenville, is a public utility located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, and is a hydroelectric dam on the West Fork Tuckasegee River.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 150 feet and has a storage capacity of 67,100 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 65,600 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1,462 acres and a drainage area of 37 square miles, Thorpe has a maximum discharge of 61,400 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Thorpe's spillway width is 238 feet and features Tainter (radial) outlet gates. Classified as a high hazard potential dam, Thorpe's risk assessment is very high, indicating the importance of proper risk management measures. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections by the FERC ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate Thorpe's significant role in generating hydroelectric power while navigating potential environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

150

River Or Stream

West Fork Tuckasegee River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1462

Hydraulic Height

150

Drainage Area

37

Nid Storage

67100

Structural Height

150

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

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.