Goss Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: African Plains Dam Lower Zoo Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Goss Lake Dam, located in Highfalls, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1950, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18.5 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, with a length of 330 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and serves the Richland Creek-Tr river/stream, contributing to the drainage area of 122 square miles.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Goss Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2012. With a surface area of 5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, the dam provides recreational opportunities while ensuring the safety of the surrounding area. Although there have been no recent modifications or updates, the structure continues to meet guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures.
Overall, Goss Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the community, offering a serene environment for outdoor activities while also maintaining a low risk profile in terms of potential hazards. Its historical significance as a part of the local landscape, coupled with its functional design and satisfactory condition, make it an important contributor to the water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Randolph County, North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
330 |
River Or Stream |
Richland Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
18.5 |
Drainage Area |
122 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Goss Lake Dam