Stedman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Stedman Lake Dam, also known as Issac Walton League Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Danbury, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1919, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. Standing at a structural height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 28 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in February 2014, Stedman Lake Dam remains a safe and reliable structure for the local community. The dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Dam Safety Program, ensuring that all necessary measures for enforcement and compliance are in place. Situated along the Dan River-Tr, the dam contributes to the overall drainage area of 877 square miles, offering a vital resource for water management in the region.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources and climate science, Stedman Lake Dam provides a fascinating case study of early 20th-century engineering and its continued relevance in modern times. As a recreational hub nestled within the natural beauty of Stokes County, North Carolina, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for both leisure and environmental conservation. With its rich history and ongoing commitment to safety and regulation, Stedman Lake Dam offers a valuable insight into the complex dynamics of water management in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

140

River Or Stream

Dan River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

877

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.