Meadows Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Meadows Lake Dam, located in Sapphire, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 13 feet. With a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet, the dam offers a surface area of 5 acres for visitors to enjoy. Situated along the Horsepasture River-Trib, this dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam's hazard potential is significant, but its condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in March 2021. The emergency action plan was last revised in May 2006, and the dam is inspected every two years to mitigate any risks associated with its operation. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, Meadows Lake Dam remains a popular spot for recreation in Jackson County, attracting visitors with its picturesque surroundings and serene waters. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, the data about Meadows Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the management and regulation of this essential infrastructure in North Carolina.

With its location in a scenic area and its crucial role in providing recreational opportunities, Meadows Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for the community while also posing certain risks due to its significant hazard potential. As enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, exploring the details of this dam's design, construction, and regulatory oversight offers valuable insights into how essential infrastructure like dams are managed to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The data highlights the collaborative efforts between the private owner and state agencies to maintain the dam's integrity and uphold safety standards, making Meadows Lake Dam a noteworthy site for both enjoyment and responsible stewardship in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

170

River Or Stream

Horsepasture River-Trib

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

45

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

16
       
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.