Blue Ridge Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Blue Ridge Lake Dam, located in Lake Toxaway, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Sitting on Indian Creek, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, with a length of 150 feet. It offers a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 22 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 2 acres for recreational activities.

Despite being a privately owned structure, the dam is inspected by the state of North Carolina, with the last assessment conducted in March 2014. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, but its condition was rated as fair during the last assessment. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam does not have a spillway type or width specified. The dam serves as a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy water-based activities in the picturesque surroundings of Transylvania County.

Overall, Blue Ridge Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational asset in the region, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of Indian Creek and the surrounding landscapes. Despite its private ownership, the dam's maintenance and safety are regularly monitored by the state, ensuring that visitors can continue to enjoy the benefits of this essential water resource.

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

Indian Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.