Lake Hollifield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Hollifield Dam, located in Cleveland, North Carolina, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 185 feet, the dam impounds the Sandy Run Branch - Tributary and offers a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected by the NC Dam Safety Program and is regulated by NCDEQ, DEMLR.

The dam, part of the Nashville District, has no associated structures and is owned privately. It has a surface area of 3 acres and drains a watershed area of 189 acres. While the dam's spillway type and maximum discharge are unspecified, it stands as a crucial recreational asset in the region. With its last inspection conducted in January 2020 and a hazard potential deemed high, ensuring the safety and maintenance of Lake Hollifield Dam is paramount for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Understanding the significance of Lake Hollifield Dam not only as a recreational destination but also as a vital element in water resource management underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight. With its location in a high-hazard area, the dam's condition assessment and emergency action plan preparedness are essential aspects to monitor and address. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, Lake Hollifield Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and the responsible stewardship of our natural resources.

Dam Length

20

River Or Stream

Sandy Run Branch - Trib.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

185

Drainage Area

189

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

185
       
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.