Thrash Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thrash Dam, located in Candler, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on Little Pole Creek that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 34 feet with a hydraulic height of 28 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres and a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second, Thrash Dam provides not only a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities but also plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

The dam has been identified to have a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in March 2017. It is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program to ensure its operational and structural integrity. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Thrash Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities for residents and visitors alike.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thrash Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam that contributes to both recreation and water management efforts in North Carolina. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, this dam serves as a vital component of the region's infrastructure while also highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.

Dam Length

340

River Or Stream

Little Pole Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

37

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.