Old Tryon Water Suppy Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
The Old Tryon Water Supply Dam, located in Polk, North Carolina, is a vital structure managed by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
This rockfill dam, with a structural height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet, impounds the Big Fall Creek (tr) and has a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet. The dam, regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, is deemed to have a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2013.
Despite its age and high hazard potential, the Old Tryon Water Supply Dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively. With a history dating back to an unknown completion year, the dam stands as a critical piece of infrastructure for water resource management in the region. Although details on its spillway type, volume, and discharge capacity are not provided, the dam's presence ensures a reliable water supply for the surrounding community.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts marvel at the engineering behind the Old Tryon Water Supply Dam, they also acknowledge the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a designated inspection frequency and a fair condition assessment, this dam serves as a reminder of the essential role such structures play in providing water security for local populations and the need for ongoing oversight to mitigate potential risks.
Dam Length |
100 |
River Or Stream |
Big Fall Creek (tr) |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Old Tryon Water Suppy Dam