Fleetwood Falls Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fleetwood Falls Lake Dam, located in Ashe County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, with a length of 230 feet. The reservoir created by the dam has a storage capacity of 21.8 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.7 acres. The dam is situated on the South Fork New River-Tr and is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment of Fleetwood Falls Lake Dam as of March 2021 was deemed fair. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent inspection taking place in March 2021 and an inspection frequency of every 2 years. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in August 2019, and it is important for stakeholders to ensure that the EAP meets safety guidelines and is regularly updated to mitigate risks associated with the dam's operation.

Overall, Fleetwood Falls Lake Dam serves as a recreational asset in Ashe County, providing opportunities for activities such as fishing and boating. With its location on the South Fork New River-Tr and its role in water resource management, the dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community. Maintaining the safety and integrity of the dam through regular inspections and adherence to regulatory guidelines is essential to ensure the continued enjoyment and safety of those who utilize the reservoir and surrounding area.

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

South Fork New River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.7

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

21.8

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.