Sanders Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sanders Lake Dam, located in Cumberland County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 33 feet, with a length of 390 feet and a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Bones Creek-Tr and serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-related activities.

Managed and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Sanders Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2016. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for the local community, with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates ensuring proper water flow. With a moderate risk assessment rating, ongoing risk management measures are being implemented to maintain the dam's integrity and safety standards for years to come.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanders Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. Its presence along the Bones Creek-Tr not only enhances the recreational opportunities in the area but also highlights the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources. As a testament to collaboration between private ownership and state regulatory agencies, Sanders Lake Dam stands as a symbol of harmonious coexistence between man-made structures and the environment they inhabit.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

390

River Or Stream

Bones Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

235

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.