Lake Kannapolis Dam, located in Kannapolis, North Carolina, stands as a critical piece of infrastructure for water supply in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1940, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 40 feet, with a length stretching 830 feet. The dam's primary purpose is to provide water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 3420 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 5931 acre-feet.
The dam, situated on Irish Buffalo Creek, is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, the dam is closely monitored and subject to regular inspections, the last of which occurred in January 2021. Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's critical role in water supply underscores its importance in the local community.
Lake Kannapolis Dam, owned by the local government, serves as a vital component of the region's water management infrastructure. With its impressive capacity and strategic location, the dam not only provides essential water supply but also highlights the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued functionality and safety. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and safeguarding structures like Lake Kannapolis Dam becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1940 |
Dam Length |
830 |
River Or Stream |
Irish Buffalo Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
267 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
5931 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
40 |