Jackson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Jackson Lake Dam, located in Stanhope, North Carolina, is a picturesque masonry dam constructed in 1929 along Cypress Creek.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a serene surface area of 36.6 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 665 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 165 acre-feet, providing ample water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Jackson Lake Dam is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in March 2020, with a high hazard potential due to its proximity to populated areas. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets all state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a drainage area of 7,040 acres, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 4,052 cubic feet per second, safeguarding against potential flooding events.

As a vital water resource in the region, Jackson Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Its historic significance, combined with its functional design and regulatory oversight, make it a fascinating site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1929

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Cypress Creek

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

36.6

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

7040

Nid Storage

665

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.