South Hyco Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Richmond Dam Carver Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
South Hyco Lake Dam, located in Person County, North Carolina, was completed in 1977 and serves as a vital structure for both recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
The dam, primarily owned by the local government, stands at a hydraulic height of 45.5 feet and a structural height of 58 feet, holding a storage capacity of 9,400 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the picturesque South Hyco Creek and covers a surface area of 450 acres, offering a serene and scenic setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.
Managed by the NC Dam Safety Program and subject to state regulation and inspection, South Hyco Lake Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential but maintains a satisfactory condition assessment as of the latest inspection in March 2021. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in October 2015, with no recent updates reported on emergency contacts or inundation maps. Despite its potential risks, the dam continues to be a popular spot for outdoor activities and provides a valuable water source for the surrounding community, making it a significant landmark for both environmental conservation and recreational enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
650 |
River Or Stream |
South Hyco Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
450 |
Hydraulic Height |
45.5 |
Drainage Area |
18496 |
Nid Storage |
9400 |
Structural Height |
58 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
58 |
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.
South Hyco Lake Dam