Different Drum Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Different Drum Lake, located in Watauga, North Carolina, is a privately owned recreational lake managed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The lake, situated in Elizabethton Tn, is fed by Baird Creek and has a structural height of 27.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 22.2 feet. It serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

With a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres, Different Drum Lake is a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of nature. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam is not currently rated for its condition. However, regular inspections have been conducted, with the last assessment taking place in November 2020. The lake's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates provide a natural flow for excess water, ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

As a haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Different Drum Lake offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a connection to the natural world. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, this private lake is a gem waiting to be explored by outdoor adventurers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of North Carolina's landscape.

Dam Length

106

River Or Stream

Baird Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

22.2

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

27.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

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.