Palmetto Lake Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Palmetto Lake Lower Dam, located in Pea Ridge, North Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam on Cove Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet and a hydraulic height of 29.1 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 70 acre-feet. The dam has a surface area of 5 acres and a length of 220 feet, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
This dam is state-regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The last inspection conducted in July 2014 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its age of completion not being specified, the dam continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively and is a vital part of the local water resource management system.
With a notable congressman, Patrick T. McHenry, representing the area in Congress, Palmetto Lake Lower Dam is a key feature in the region's landscape. While the dam does not have associated structures or locks, its importance lies in providing a safe and enjoyable environment for recreational activities while contributing to the overall water resource management in Polk County, North Carolina.
Dam Length |
220 |
River Or Stream |
Cove Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.1 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Palmetto Lake Lower Dam