Wells Lake Dam Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wells Lake Dam Upper, also known as Harold Wells Upper Dam, is a private dam located in Cherokee, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 42.3 feet and a structural height of 49 feet, creating a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet along Cane Creek. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, offering a serene lakeside area for visitors to enjoy.

The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition, last assessed in January 2017. With a normal storage capacity of 275 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, Wells Lake Dam Upper provides a safe and enjoyable recreational environment for the community. Though not under the jurisdiction of any federal agency, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the state, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure for all who flock to its waters.

Situated in a picturesque setting within the Nashville District, Wells Lake Dam Upper is a vital part of the local landscape, offering a peaceful retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its modest size and tranquil surroundings, this private dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management in safeguarding our natural resources and recreational areas.

Dam Length

210

River Or Stream

Cane Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

42.3

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

49

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

49
       
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.