Hauser Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hauser Lake Dam, located in Forsyth, North Carolina, serves as a vital recreational hub in the area.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet and boasts a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 12.6 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 14 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding community. The dam, situated on Smith Creek-Tr, covers a surface area of 2.1 acres and has a drainage area of 65 square miles.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Hauser Lake Dam continues to be a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts. The dam's last inspection in January 2021 revealed its operational integrity, with a maintenance frequency of every two years. While the dam lacks an emergency action plan, it remains under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring necessary regulatory oversight and enforcement measures to mitigate potential risks.
With its picturesque setting and recreational purpose, Hauser Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for responsible stewardship of our natural resources, the preservation and upkeep of dams like Hauser Lake serve as crucial components in safeguarding our environment for future generations.
Dam Length |
225 |
River Or Stream |
Smith Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
65 |
Nid Storage |
14 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hauser Lake Dam