Craven Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Craven Dam, located in Highfalls, North Carolina, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 25.6 feet and a hydraulic height of 23.6 feet, with a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet. While the dam has a low hazard potential, its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in November 2014.

The dam, situated on Squirrel Creek near Randolph County, plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a drainage area of 13 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 45 cubic feet per second, Craven Dam helps regulate water flow and provide essential water resources for local communities. Despite its private ownership, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Craven Dam offers an intriguing case study in small-scale dam management and the intersection of water conservation and recreational activities. From its modest surface area of 3 acres to its integral role in maintaining water levels for fire protection and wildlife, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, its impact on the local ecosystem and water supply remains a focal point for environmental stewardship and conservation efforts.

Dam Length

488

River Or Stream

Squirrel Ck-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

23.6

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

25.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.