Farris Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Madison, North Carolina, Farris Park Dam was completed in 1979 and is owned and operated by the local government.


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Summary

The dam, designed by USDA NRCS, stands at a structural height of 23.7 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, impounding Big Beaver Island Creek-Tr for recreational purposes. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 49 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 137 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 10.2 acres.

While the dam's hazard potential is classified as low, its condition assessment is deemed fair as of the last inspection in March 2016. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The risk assessment for Farris Park Dam is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date not available. Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting the area can appreciate the scenic beauty of the dam and its surrounding landscape, while also being mindful of the potential risks and management measures associated with the structure.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Big Beaver Island Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.2

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

678

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

23.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
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.