Tilson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tilson Dam, located in Fletcher, North Carolina, serves as a recreational resource along the Gap Creek-Tr river.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26.5 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 244 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 8 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 12 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 1 acre for recreational activities.

Although the dam is rated as having a significant hazard potential, its condition assessment as of May 2017 was deemed fair. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Tilson Dam presents an intriguing case study in managing a privately-owned recreational dam within the state regulatory framework. The dam's role in providing water storage and recreational opportunities along the Gap Creek-Tr river showcases the intersection of human infrastructure with natural resources. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts ensure the safety of the dam and the surrounding community, highlighting the importance of proper management in safeguarding water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

244

River Or Stream

Gap Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

26.5

Nid Storage

12

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.