Armstrong Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Armstrong Dam in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, the dam spans 260 feet and has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is inspected periodically, with the last assessment conducted in May 2014, revealing a fair condition and significant hazard potential.

Owned by a private entity, Armstrong Dam offers enthusiasts of water resources and climate a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human-made structures and their impact on the environment. Situated within the Nashville District, the dam's location at 35.0666° N, -84.2326° W provides a picturesque setting for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's non-federal status and independent ownership highlight the diverse landscape of water resource management in North Carolina.

Despite its fair condition and significant hazard potential, Armstrong Dam remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and engage in water-related activities. As a privately-owned earth dam, it serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human intervention and environmental conservation in the management of water resources. With its unique design and recreational focus, Armstrong Dam offers a fascinating case study for those interested in the intersection of infrastructure, climate, and sustainable recreation.

Dam Length

260

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

16

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.