Goforth Dam # 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Goforth Dam # 1 is a privately owned earth dam located in Statesville, North Carolina, along the Fourth Creek-Tr river.


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Summary

Built in 1979, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond. With a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, it has a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a normal storage of 64 acre-feet. The dam spans 280 feet in length and covers a surface area of 8 acres, with a drainage area of 55 square miles.

Despite being privately owned, Goforth Dam # 1 is not regulated by the state and does not require permits for operation. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The last inspection was conducted in October 2018, with no major issues reported at that time. While it may not be a high-profile structure, Goforth Dam # 1 plays a crucial role in providing essential services such as fire protection and water storage for the local community.

Overall, Goforth Dam # 1 may not be the largest or most complex dam, but its significance lies in its practical utility and contribution to the local ecosystem. As a key feature along the Fourth Creek-Tr river, this dam showcases the importance of water resource management and the role that small-scale structures play in supporting community needs. With a focus on fire protection and water storage, Goforth Dam # 1 exemplifies the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

280

River Or Stream

Fourth Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

55

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

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.