Keith Carver Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Keith Carver Dam, located in Rutherfordton, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure built in 1990 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a structural height of 29 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet, impounds Mountain Creek-Tr and has a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2013, the dam serves as a vital resource for water-based recreational activities in the area.

The dam, managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, covers a surface area of 2.5 acres and is situated within a drainage area of 128 square miles. Despite lacking a spillway type and outlet gates, the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion and has not been regulated by the state. The surrounding area offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts, with the dam providing a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to engage in various water-based activities.

Overall, Keith Carver Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence between human development and natural landscapes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the responsible management and maintenance of structures like Keith Carver Dam are crucial to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the preservation of the surrounding environment. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the role that dams like Keith Carver play in balancing human needs with the conservation of natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

450

River Or Stream

Mountain Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

128

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.