Echo Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Echo Lake Dam in Horse Shoe, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. Situated on Shaw Creek-Tr, the dam covers an area of 4 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2017, Echo Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to residential areas and recreational use. The dam's last inspection in May 2017 revealed that it meets safety guidelines, with an inspection frequency of every two years. While the dam has no associated structures or outlet gates, its location in Henderson County highlights the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness to prevent potential risks to downstream communities and the environment.

As a vital recreational resource in the region, Echo Lake Dam requires ongoing monitoring and management to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With its scenic location and diverse offerings, including fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, the dam serves as a valuable asset for both locals and visitors. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the dam's condition and emergency protocols is essential to promoting sustainable use and conservation practices for this important water feature in North Carolina.

Dam Length

325

River Or Stream

Shaw Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Drainage Area

86

Nid Storage

27

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.