Thorpe - Gated Spillway And 6 Fuseplugs Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thorpe - Gated Spillway and 6 Fuseplugs, located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, is a hydroelectric facility on the West Fork Tuckasegee River.


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Summary

Built in 1941, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 67,100 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway width of 50 feet, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow and generating hydroelectric power for the region.

The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a very high risk assessment score. Despite its age, the facility undergoes regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. While the condition assessment is not available, emergency action plans are in place, indicating the proactive approach towards mitigating any potential risks associated with the dam.

Overall, Thorpe - Gated Spillway and 6 Fuseplugs serves as a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in ensuring water security and sustainable energy production. Its strategic location and design make it a key player in the region's water infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of water resources management, climate resilience, and renewable energy generation.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

275

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

West Fork Tuckasegee River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

1462

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

67100

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

14
       
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.