Third Creek Dam #12c Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Street Dam Shaver Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Third Creek Dam #12c, also known as Davidson Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Statesville, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along Back Creek. Standing at a structural height of 33 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet, Third Creek Dam #12c has a normal storage capacity of 132 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 860 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 29.2 acres.
This dam is regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are properly managed. Although categorized as having a moderate risk level, Third Creek Dam #12c has not been modified since its construction and features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. With a drainage area of 4064 acres and a maximum discharge of 198 cfs, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Overall, Third Creek Dam #12c stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. Its presence not only contributes to flood risk reduction but also serves as a reminder of the critical role that infrastructure plays in ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
305 |
River Or Stream |
Back Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
4064 |
Nid Storage |
860 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Third Creek Dam #12c