Challis Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Challis Lake Dam, located in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 26 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 175 acre-feet and a normal storage of 146 acre-feet, the dam spans 465 feet in length and covers a surface area of 16.6 acres.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Challis Lake Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in October 2019 yielding a fair condition assessment and a low hazard potential. The dam is situated on Mcalpine Creek-Tr and falls under the jurisdiction of the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources. With its picturesque setting in Charlotte, this dam offers a serene recreational space for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Overall, Challis Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource for the community, providing not only recreational opportunities but also ensuring the safety and regulation of its operations. As a well-maintained structure with a low hazard potential, this dam exemplifies the importance of proper management and oversight in maintaining the integrity and functionality of water infrastructure. For those interested in water resource management and climate-related initiatives, Challis Lake Dam stands as a noteworthy example of responsible dam operation in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

465

River Or Stream

Mcalpine Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.6

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

102

Nid Storage

175

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.