Sossamon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sossamon Dam, located in Almond, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1957, this private dam on Lemmons Branch serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors in Swain County. With a structural height of 25 feet and a hydraulic height of 23.9 feet, the dam boasts a capacity of 11 acre-feet, providing a vital storage resource for the surrounding area.
Despite its age, Sossamon Dam remains in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2017, with a significant hazard potential due to its location and design. State-regulated and permitted, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a drainage area of 26 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1 cubic foot per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of downstream communities.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sossamon Dam serves as a case study in the ongoing balance between development and environmental stewardship. As the need for sustainable water management practices grows increasingly urgent in the face of climate change, dams like Sossamon play a vital role in supporting both human activities and natural ecosystems. By understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure and regulation, enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate interplay between water resources, climate considerations, and the broader environmental landscape.
Year Completed |
1957 |
Dam Length |
150 |
River Or Stream |
Lemmons Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
23.9 |
Drainage Area |
26 |
Nid Storage |
11 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tuckasegee River At Bryson City
|
897cfs |
Oconaluftee River At Birdtown
|
265cfs |
Little Tennessee River At Needmore
|
480cfs |
Tuckasegee River At Barker's Creek
|
382cfs |
Little Tennessee R At Franklin
|
1050cfs |
Cartoogechaye Creek Near Franklin
|
261cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Deep Creek Campground
|
||
Deep Creek - Great Smoky Mountains
|
||
Deep Creek Group Camp
|
||
#66 Lower Noland Creek
|
||
#65 Bear Pen Branch
|
||
#60 Bumgardener Branch
|
Sossamon Dam
Natahala Powerhouse To Lake Fontana (River Mile 4)