Cardinal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cardinal Lake Dam, also known as Lake Toxaway Upper Dam, is a private dam located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, along the Toxaway River.


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Summary

Built in 1979, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 680 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 364 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2018, Cardinal Lake Dam is categorized as having a significant hazard potential. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, with regular state inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's last inspection took place in May 2018, with an inspection frequency of every two years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Cardinal Lake Dam an intriguing structure to study, given its location in the picturesque Transylvania County, North Carolina. As part of the Nashville District, the dam's role in managing water levels and providing recreational opportunities on Cardinal Lake makes it a significant feature in the region. With its intriguing history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam offers a unique case study for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental protection.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

225

River Or Stream

Toxaway River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

680

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.