Yadkin Falls, also known as Falls Lake, is a captivating site located in Montgomery, North Carolina, along the scenic Yadkin River.
Wind
Humidity
This private hydroelectric dam, completed in 1919, stands at an impressive height of 120 feet and boasts a gravity design with a multi-arch core and rock foundation. With a storage capacity of 2,875 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 415,000 cubic feet per second, Yadkin Falls not only serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power but also offers recreational opportunities for visitors.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Yadkin Falls is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 394 feet and is equipped with various outlet gates, including slide gates, tainter gates, and vertical lift gates. While the hazard potential of the dam is classified as high, the risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community in the event of an emergency.
As a key player in water resource management and climate resilience, Yadkin Falls exemplifies the intersection of environmental stewardship and energy production. With its rich history, impressive engineering, and strategic location in the Wilmington District, this hydroelectric facility continues to play a crucial role in meeting the region's power needs while balancing the demands of recreation and safety. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation, Yadkin Falls offers a fascinating case study in sustainable infrastructure development and risk mitigation strategies.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
748 |
Dam Height |
74 |
River Or Stream |
Yadkin |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
204 |
Hydraulic Height |
84 |
Drainage Area |
4190 |
Nid Storage |
2875 |
Structural Height |
120 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Tainter (radial) - 2, Vertical Lift - 10 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
120 |
Little River Near Star
|
16cfs |
Rocky River Near Norwood
|
305cfs |
Rocky R Ab Irish Buffalo Cr Nr Rocky River
|
84cfs |
Rocky River Nr Stanfield
|
173cfs |
Abbotts Creek At Lexington
|
31cfs |
Goose Cr At Fairview
|
14cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Deep Water Trailt Horse Camp
|
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Art Lilley Campground
|
||
Morrow Mountain State Park
|
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Arrowhead Campground
|
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Arrowhead
|
||
Badin Lake Capmground Upper Loop
|