Spencer Mountain Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spencer Mountain Dam, located in Gaston, North Carolina, stands as a critical structure regulating the flow of the South Fork Catawba River.


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Summary

With a high hazard potential and a state-regulated status, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. Despite lacking specific data on its physical attributes such as height and volume, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

The dam's primary purpose, classified as "Other," suggests a multifaceted role in water management beyond basic flood control. With no designated dam type and a high hazard potential rating, the Spencer Mountain Dam represents a significant site for climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike to monitor and study. Its status as a state-regulated structure under the oversight of the North Carolina Dam Safety Program underscores the importance of its maintenance and upkeep in preserving the surrounding environment and communities.

While details on the dam's construction date and modifications are scarce, its presence as a key regulatory point on the South Fork Catawba River warrants attention and consideration. As a focal point for water management efforts in the region, Spencer Mountain Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between human infrastructure and natural water systems, making it a site of interest and importance for those passionate about water resource conservation and climate resilience.

River Or Stream

South Fork Catawba River

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.