Farlow Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Scott Dam Pinewood Country Club Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Farlow Lake Dam, nestled in the picturesque city of Highfalls, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure that has been providing recreational opportunities since its completion in 1955.
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Summary
Serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, the dam overlooks the North Prong Richland Creek and offers a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other water activities. However, recent data indicates a high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding community.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Farlow Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and protect the environment. With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 2016 acres. Despite its essential role in providing recreational opportunities, the dam's condition assessment raises concerns about its long-term integrity and the potential risks posed by its high hazard potential.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty of Farlow Lake Dam and its surroundings, it is crucial to recognize the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure the safety and sustainability of this recreational landmark. With a history dating back to the 1950s, the dam continues to play a vital role in providing outdoor recreation opportunities while navigating the challenges of maintaining its infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. By staying vigilant and proactive in addressing safety concerns, stakeholders can work together to preserve the beauty and function of Farlow Lake Dam for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
North Prong Richland Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2016 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
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.
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