Hodge Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stigler Dam Mcguire Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hodge Dam, located in Sylva, North Carolina, serves as a vital recreational resource in the region.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 30.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 24.8 feet, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a surface area of 0.6 square miles and a storage capacity of 5 billion gallons, making it a popular destination for water-based activities.
Despite its recreational appeal, Hodge Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of January 2021. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. With a history of modifications and frequent inspections every two years, the dam's emergency action plan is crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring public safety in case of a potential breach.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts flock to Hodge Dam for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, it is essential to recognize the importance of regular maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines. With its location on Locust Creek-Tr and oversight by state regulatory agencies, Hodge Dam remains a significant landmark in Jackson County, North Carolina, balancing the need for water management with public safety and enjoyment.
Dam Length |
110 |
River Or Stream |
Locust Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
24.8 |
Nid Storage |
5 |
Structural Height |
30.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Hodge Dam