King Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

King Lake Dam, located in Chatham, North Carolina, stands as a significant structure with a primary purpose of recreation while also serving as a water supply source.


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Summary

Completed in 1948, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, providing storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in January 2014, with a significant hazard potential necessitating regular inspections every two years.

The dam, situated on Ward Branch with a surface area of 7 acres, plays a crucial role in the region's water management and recreational activities. With a maximum discharge capacity of 38 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures efficient water flow control and storage for both local residents and visitors. Despite its age, King Lake Dam continues to meet regulatory standards, with the North Carolina Dam Safety Program overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, King Lake Dam serves as a beacon of sustainable water management practices and recreational opportunities in North Carolina. With its history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure for the benefit of both humans and the environment. The dam's proximity to the city of Haywood makes it a valuable asset for the community, providing essential water storage and recreational amenities while adhering to state regulatory guidelines for safety and efficiency.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

255

River Or Stream

Ward Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.