Salter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Salter Dam, also known as Hardee Dam, is a private dam located in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina.


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Summary

This recreational dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Mining, and Land Resources Dam Safety Program. With a hydraulic height of 14.94 feet and a structural height of 18.2 feet, Salter Dam offers a serene 2.5-acre surface area for visitors to enjoy.

Although the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, it also serves as a critical structure for water resource management in the region. With a storage capacity of 13.75 acre-feet and a drainage area of 210 square miles, Salter Dam plays a key role in flood control and water supply for the surrounding area. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential dam, Salter Dam is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in May 2018.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Salter Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural water systems. Its location in Transylvania County, along with its regulatory oversight and potential risk factors, make it a compelling case study for understanding the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate. Whether for recreational enjoyment or as a subject of study, Salter Dam stands as a significant landmark in North Carolina's water landscape.

Dam Length

115

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

14.94

Drainage Area

210

Nid Storage

13.75

Structural Height

18.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.