Harned Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harned Lake Dam, located in Eden, North Carolina, on Brushy Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily utilized for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 21.4 feet and a structural height of 26.3 feet, with a length of 325 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 201 square miles.

Despite its age, Harned Lake Dam remains in fair condition with a low hazard potential, as assessed during its last inspection in December 2014. The dam is state-regulated and subject to inspections, permitting, and enforcement by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 7.8 acres for recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.

For those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate, and infrastructure management, Harned Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study. With its historical significance, recreational purpose, and ongoing state regulation, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the balance between human intervention and environmental preservation in the context of water resource management. As enthusiasts delve into the details of its design, condition, and regulatory oversight, they gain valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining and utilizing water infrastructure in a sustainable manner.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

325

River Or Stream

Brushy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.8

Hydraulic Height

21.4

Drainage Area

201

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

26.3

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.