Araniska Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Araniska Dam, also known as Van Dillion Dam and Qualheim Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Cherry Lane, North Carolina, along the picturesque Little Glade Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam provides a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities.

Constructed in an earth dam type design, Araniska Dam has a length of 250 feet and a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 18 acre-feet. Despite being non-state regulated, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory and a low hazard potential. The last inspection in August 2019 confirmed the dam's safety and its ability to withstand potential risks, ensuring the well-being of the surrounding community and environment.

For water enthusiasts seeking a serene recreational spot in Alleghany, North Carolina, Araniska Dam offers a tranquil retreat amidst nature's beauty. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, this private-owned dam provides a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to partake in various outdoor activities while appreciating the surrounding natural landscape.

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Little Glade Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

309

Nid Storage

33

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds