Pyle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Pyle Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, along the Potts Branch river, was completed in 1977 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of earth and stone, stands at a structural height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 23.3 feet. It has a capacity of 28 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.5 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Oak Grove area.

Despite being privately owned, Pyle Dam falls under state regulation and jurisdiction, with inspections and enforcement carried out by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of November 2017. With a moderate risk level, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified.

Visitors to Pyle Dam can enjoy its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities while being assured of its regulated safety standards. The dam's role in providing water resource management and climate resilience in the region reflects the importance of maintaining and monitoring such vital infrastructure for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

192

River Or Stream

Potts Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

23.3

Drainage Area

320

Nid Storage

28

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.