Indian Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Indian Lake Dam in North Carolina is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Situated in Ashe County, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, with a surface area of 2 acres and a drainage area of 50 acres. Despite its fair condition assessment as of March 2021, the dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Indian Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, and inspected by state authorities to meet safety standards. The dam's maximum storage capacity is 15 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 11 acre-feet. The dam has a spillway width and type unspecified, highlighting a potential area for improvement in the event of high water levels. Furthermore, the dam has a history of modifications, suggesting ongoing efforts to enhance its performance and resilience.

With its association with old Fields Creek-Tr, Indian Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's location in a high-risk zone underscores the importance of implementing emergency action plans and risk management measures to address potential hazards effectively. As a focal point for recreation and water supply, continued monitoring and maintenance of Indian Lake Dam are vital to safeguarding both the environment and the community.

Dam Length

240

River Or Stream

old Fields Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

50

Nid Storage

15

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

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.