Rowan County Wildlife Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Rowan County Wildlife Lake Dam, located in Salisbury, North Carolina, serves as a recreational resource for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1965, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, providing a serene 9-acre surface area for outdoor activities. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a maximum storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a normal storage of 60 acre-feet, the dam on Graft Branch offers a peaceful retreat for visitors while also serving as a vital component of the local ecosystem. Its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential indicate the need for regular inspections, which are conducted biennially to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, its association with recreational activities and its proximity to the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers add to its significance as a valuable water resource.

In the care of private owners and under state regulation, the Rowan County Wildlife Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible water management and the preservation of natural habitats. Its recreational purpose, combined with its crucial role in flood control and water management, makes it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship in North Carolina's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

380

River Or Stream

Graft Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

640

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.