Crawford Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Crawford Lake Dam, located in Cool Springs, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1963, this earthen dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet, impounding a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Fifth Creek-Tr and is managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Crawford Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The last inspection conducted in October 2015 confirmed its stable condition. Despite its modest size and purpose, the dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community while also contributing to the overall water resource management in the region.
As a key feature in the landscape of Iredell County, Crawford Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of human engineering and natural surroundings. Its existence not only enhances the recreational value of the area but also underscores the importance of proper dam management and safety protocols in safeguarding water resources and promoting climate resilience. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Crawford Lake Dam stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between mankind and the environment in the pursuit of sustainable development.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Fifth Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Crawford Lake Dam