Elkin Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Elkin, North Carolina, the Elkin Reservoir Dam serves as a crucial water supply structure managed by the local government.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of water supply, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, with a capacity for storing 61.2 acre-feet of water. The dam spans 1000 feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres, drawing from a drainage area of 96 square miles.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of February 2020, the Elkin Reservoir Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, underscoring its importance in maintaining water resources for the community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Elkin Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the vital role of infrastructure in securing and managing water supplies amid changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
1000 |
River Or Stream |
Elkin Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
96 |
Nid Storage |
61.2 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Yadkin River At Wilkesboro
|
423cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
Hunting Creek Near Harmony
|
93cfs |
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.
Elkin Reservoir Dam