Highland Orchard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highland Orchard Dam, located in Jonesville, North Carolina, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2018, the earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 17 feet, providing storage of up to 50 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to maintain a fish and wildlife pond, while also supporting recreational activities and other uses.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent assessment in January 2021. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary to Arnolds Branch, with a drainage area of 265 acres and a surface area of 5 acres.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of Highland Orchard Dam in providing a habitat for local wildlife and supporting recreational opportunities in the region. Its construction and regulation by state authorities ensure the safety and sustainability of its operations, reflecting a commitment to responsible water management practices in North Carolina.

Year Completed

2018

Dam Length

360

River Or Stream

Unnamed Trib to Arnolds Branch

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

265

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.