Jones Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Jones Lake Dam, located in Catawba, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1951 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, with a length of 430 feet. The dam holds a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and spans a drainage area of 57 square miles, providing essential water resources for the region.
Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, Jones Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in December 2019. The dam is regulated and permitted by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets all safety standards and protocols. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and maintain structures like Jones Lake Dam to prevent potential risks and ensure the sustainable management of water resources in the area.
With its picturesque location on the South Fork Creek, Jones Lake Dam not only serves as a recreational spot but also plays a vital role in water storage and management in Catawba County. As a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts and a key component of the local ecosystem, this dam highlights the importance of balancing human recreation with environmental preservation and water resource sustainability.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
430 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
57 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Jones Lake Dam