Fairfield Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Fairfield Lake Dam, located in Sapphire, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation along Trays Island Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1890, this earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 34.6 feet and a structural height of 41 feet, with a length of 396 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 3015 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 1844 acre-feet and a surface area of 183 acres.

Despite its age, Fairfield Lake Dam is deemed to be in fair condition following the latest inspection in March 2021. With a hazard potential classified as high, the dam is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. Although no modifications have been reported in recent years, the dam's emergency action plan is due for an update, last revised in May 2006. As a key feature in the local recreational landscape, Fairfield Lake Dam remains a vital component in managing water resources and offering leisure opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1890

Dam Length

396

River Or Stream

Trays Island Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

183

Hydraulic Height

34.6

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

3015

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.