Lookout Shoals Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lookout Shoals, a hydroelectric dam located in Catawba, North Carolina, is a marvel of engineering that has been providing renewable energy since its completion in 1915 by the Southern Power Company.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 88 feet and has a hydraulic height of 79 feet, with a capacity to store 26,390 acre-feet of water. The dam's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, utilizing a gravity design to harness the power of the Catawba River.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Lookout Shoals plays a significant role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 366,079 cubic feet per second. The dam's high hazard potential necessitates regular inspections, with the last one conducted in June 2019. While the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, measures for risk management and emergency preparedness are vital aspects that are still being developed. Lookout Shoals is not only a source of clean energy but also a vital component in ensuring water security and climate resilience in the area.
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
2731.08 |
Dam Height |
88 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
835 |
Hydraulic Height |
79 |
Drainage Area |
1450 |
Nid Storage |
26390 |
Structural Height |
88 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
88 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lookout Shoals