Lowery Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lowery Dam, located in Franklin, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock management, and acting as a small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam is primarily made of earth and stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet, with a structural height of 20 feet and a length of 375 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.5 acres, making it a vital resource for water management in the area.

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Lowery Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2020. With its location on Horse Creek-Tr and its critical role in water management for the region, Lowery Dam plays a crucial part in supporting the local ecosystem and providing essential services to the community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique features of Lowery Dam, such as its multiple uses and state-regulated status, make it a fascinating subject for study and observation. Its importance for fire protection, stock management, and water storage highlights the interconnectedness of human activities and environmental sustainability. With ongoing monitoring and risk management measures in place, Lowery Dam stands as a testament to the critical role of infrastructure in balancing water resource needs and ecological health in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

375

River Or Stream

Horse Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

20

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.