Potato Hill Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Potato Hill Lake, also known as Tater Hill Lake, is a picturesque reservoir located in Todd, North Carolina, within Watauga County.


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Summary

This state-owned lake was completed in 1948 and serves as a popular recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a primary purpose of recreation, Potato Hill Lake offers visitors a tranquil setting to enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and picnicking in a beautiful natural environment.

The dam at Potato Hill Lake is an earth structure with a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 18 feet. The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 52 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet, providing ample water for recreational use. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, with the last inspection conducted in November 2020.

Surrounded by the serene Howards Creek and nestled in the stunning landscapes of Watauga County, Potato Hill Lake offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature. Whether you're looking to relax by the water's edge or engage in water-based activities, this charming lake is a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the beauty and importance of water resources in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Howards Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.