Little Mountain Farms Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Mountain Farms Upper Dam, located in Catawba, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 2001, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 37.2 feet, with a structural height of 42.6 feet and a length of 850 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 337.6 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 25.5 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was assessed as fair during its last inspection in 2017. With its association with the South Fork Creek-Tributary and proximity to Keisters Store, the dam offers both recreational opportunities and a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Little Mountain Farms Upper Dam presents a fascinating insight into the infrastructure that supports both leisure activities and environmental conservation efforts. With its strategic location and regulated maintenance, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper management and oversight in preserving water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
850 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Creek-Tributary |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
37.2 |
Drainage Area |
825 |
Nid Storage |
337.6 |
Structural Height |
42.6 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Little Mountain Farms Upper Dam