Lake Tom-A-Lex Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Tom-A-Lex Dam, located in Davidson, North Carolina, serves as a vital water supply source in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 43 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 11,180 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding communities. With a normal storage capacity of 8,320 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 32,000 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water supply and flood control in the area.

Managed by the local government, Lake Tom-A-Lex Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring stringent inspection, enforcement, and permitting measures are in place. The dam's satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential highlight the importance of its maintenance and emergency preparedness. Despite its age, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of water supply, reflecting its critical role in supporting the region's water needs.

Situated on Abbotts Creek and covering a surface area of 650 acres, Lake Tom-A-Lex Dam not only provides essential water resources but also serves as a recreational spot for the community. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region, making it a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

635

River Or Stream

Abbotts Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

650

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

46700

Nid Storage

11180

Structural Height

43

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

43
       
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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.