Garris Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Garris Dam, located in Iredell, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on Fifth Creek-Os that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, classified as an earth dam, has a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, with a length of 180 feet. It has a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.5 acres, making it a significant water resource in the area.
Although Garris Dam is not regulated by the state, it is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential, although its overall condition has not been formally rated. The last inspection took place in November 2016, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with the structure.
As a site that offers recreational opportunities and contributes to the local water management system, Garris Dam plays a vital role in the community. Its presence not only enhances the natural landscape but also provides a valuable resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate and enjoy.
Dam Length |
180 |
River Or Stream |
Fifth Creek-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
21 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Garris Dam