Cornwell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Cornwell Dam, located in Fairview, North Carolina, on Stevens Creek, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 27.5 feet, this dam was completed in 1957 and has a normal storage capacity of 211 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 363 square miles, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the region, storing up to 358 acre-feet of water and covering a surface area of 23 acres.

Despite its recreational purpose, Cornwell Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2020. The dam is subject to state regulation by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with inspection, enforcement, and permitting all managed by state agencies. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in June 2016, indicating a commitment to safety and risk management measures.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Cornwell Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the importance of maintaining its safety and integrity. With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, this dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing natural resources for the benefit of local communities. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's compliance with regulations and safety standards, Cornwell Dam remains a key feature in the landscape of Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

700

River Or Stream

Stevens Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

363

Nid Storage

358

Structural Height

27.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.