Temple Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Air Bellows Dam Araniska Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Temple Lake Dam, located in Alleghany County, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes such as fishing and small water sports.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1960, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 39 feet, with a structural height of 41 feet and a length of 612 feet. The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet, providing essential fire protection and stock or small fish pond opportunities for the local community.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Temple Lake Dam remains under state regulation, with regular inspections conducted by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam's proximity to the Pine Swamp Creek-Tr river contributes to its vital role in water resource management, serving a drainage area of 126 square miles. With a normal storage capacity of 85 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 394 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and ensuring downstream safety for the surrounding area.
In the event of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is periodically reviewed and updated to meet state guidelines. Although no spillway or outlet gates are mentioned, Temple Lake Dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while managing water resources effectively. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, sustainable management of structures like Temple Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for safeguarding local ecosystems and communities against potential risks and hazards.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
612 |
River Or Stream |
Pine Swamp Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
39 |
Drainage Area |
126 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
New River Near Galax
|
987cfs |
Chestnut Creek At Galax
|
36cfs |
South Fork New River Near Jefferson
|
254cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
717cfs |
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.
Site F
Site E
Site A
Site B
Site C
Site D
Temple Lake Dam