Johnson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Johnson Dam, located in Bethel, North Carolina, is a private earth dam on Harley Branch with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam has a hydraulic height of 20.4 feet and a structural height of 23.7 feet, with a storage capacity of 5 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, and it is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Johnson Dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for fire protection and agricultural purposes in the area. The dam's location in Haywood County, North Carolina, ensures that it serves as a vital water source for the local community. Its presence also contributes to the overall sustainability and resilience of the region's water infrastructure, especially in times of increased demand or climate variability.

With its strategic position and operational significance, Johnson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing water resources effectively in the face of climate change and increasing water demands. As a private dam regulated by state authorities, Johnson Dam represents a key component of the water management system in North Carolina, highlighting the critical role that dams play in ensuring water security and resource availability for both present and future generations.

Dam Length

231

River Or Stream

Harley Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.5

Hydraulic Height

20.4

Nid Storage

5

Structural Height

23.7

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
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.