Watauga Vista Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Echo Valley Pond W. S. Jones Lake
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Watauga Vista Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a private dam situated on Watauga Creek, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 44 feet, with a hydraulic height of 38.2 feet and a length of 167 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 24 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 31 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 384 square miles.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Watauga Vista Dam undergoes regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program to ensure compliance with state regulations and enforcement. The dam's last inspection in March 2018 revealed its satisfactory condition, with an inspection frequency of every 2 years. While the dam does not have associated locks or spillways, it plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area, serving as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
As a significant structure in the region, Watauga Vista Dam is overseen by its private owners and state regulatory agencies to maintain its safety and functionality. The dam's location in the Nashville District and its association with Watauga City make it a vital part of the local landscape. With ongoing monitoring and adherence to safety guidelines, Watauga Vista Dam continues to contribute to the community's water resource management and recreational enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
167 |
River Or Stream |
Watauga Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
38.2 |
Drainage Area |
384 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Structural Height |
44 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Watauga Vista Dam