Phillips Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Phillips Dam, also known as Leonard Phillips Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Robbinsville, North Carolina.


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Summary

Situated along Tulula Creek-Trib, this earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a hydraulic height of 25.6 feet and a structural height of 30.5 feet, Phillips Dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.4 acres.

Despite its recreational appeal, Phillips Dam poses a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2018. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. With a drainage area of 67 square miles and a maximum discharge rate of 185 cubic feet per second, Phillips Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and providing essential water resources to the surrounding area.

As a key feature in the Nashville District, Phillips Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a vital part of the local water infrastructure. With its rich history and ongoing maintenance, Phillips Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in North Carolina.

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Tulula Creek-Trib

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.4

Hydraulic Height

25.6

Drainage Area

67

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

30.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

31
       
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.