Gimlin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gimlin Dam, located in Ashe, North Carolina, serves as a vital recreational resource along the picturesque Obids Creek.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13.7 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, with a dam length spanning 400 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities in a beautiful natural setting.

Despite its scenic appeal, Gimlin Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of August 2020. With a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing a habitat for various wildlife species in the area. However, its current state of disrepair raises concerns about its long-term sustainability and the potential risks it may pose to the surrounding community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty of Gimlin Dam, efforts towards improving its condition and ensuring its safety are essential. With state regulation and inspection in place, along with the involvement of various agencies, the future of this recreational gem relies on proactive maintenance and risk management measures to safeguard its integrity for generations to come.

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Obids Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.2

Hydraulic Height

13.7

Drainage Area

73

Nid Storage

15

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.