Thompson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Thompson Dam, located in Beulah, North Carolina, is a private recreational dam that provides a serene getaway for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, this earth dam stands at 240 feet in length and holds a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. The dam sits on the UT to Canal Creek (c) waterway and is managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of 2013, Thompson Dam serves as a vital source of leisure and relaxation for locals and visitors alike. The dam boasts a maximum discharge capacity of 350 cubic feet per second and offers a surface area of 3 acres for recreational activities. With its tranquil surroundings and picturesque views, Thompson Dam is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of Polk County, North Carolina.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Thompson Dam not only for its recreational opportunities but also for its role in maintaining the ecological balance of the surrounding area. By providing a controlled water source for the UT to Canal Creek (c) waterway, this dam contributes to the preservation of local ecosystems and wildlife habitats. As a privately owned structure, Thompson Dam represents a harmonious blend of human recreation and environmental conservation, making it a valuable asset for those who value sustainable water resource management and climate-conscious practices.

Dam Length

240

River Or Stream

UT to Canal Creek (c)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.