Indian Lake Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Indian Lake Lower Dam, located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

The dam, constructed for recreational purposes, stands at a hydraulic height of 55 feet and a structural height of 65 feet, with a length of 220 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 754 acres along Indian Creek.

The dam, with a high hazard potential, was last inspected in September 2015 and deemed to be in satisfactory condition. While no significant modifications or risk assessments have been reported, the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status remains unclear. The dam's location in a picturesque area with a surface area of 10 acres adds to its charm, but also underscores the importance of consistent maintenance and oversight to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the local ecosystem.

Overall, Indian Lake Lower Dam stands as a vital recreational resource in Transylvania County, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. With its regulatory compliance and satisfactory condition, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and emergency preparedness to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Dam Length

220

River Or Stream

Indian Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

754

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

65

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.