Wolf Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wolf Lake Dam, located in North Carolina's Jackson County, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Situated in the Fairfield Development area near the Flatwood Branch river, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 19 feet, with a length of 224 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 37 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 3 acres, providing a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of February 2019, Wolf Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that state permitting, inspection, and enforcement procedures are in place to mitigate risks associated with the structure. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures warrant further attention to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

For those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience, Wolf Lake Dam serves as a unique case study in private dam ownership and management. With its scenic location and recreational purpose, the dam presents both opportunities and challenges in balancing human enjoyment of water resources with the need for careful stewardship and risk mitigation in the face of changing climate conditions. As enthusiasts continue to monitor and engage with the evolving landscape of water resource management, Wolf Lake Dam stands as a focal point for dialogue and action in protecting our natural environment for future generations.

Dam Length

224

River Or Stream

Flatwood Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

37

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.