Daniel Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 23, 2026

Daniel Lake Dam, located in Cooleemee, North Carolina, serves the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 21.1 feet and a structural height of 21.6 feet, with a total length of 575 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 49 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, the dam is inspected regularly, with the last inspection taking place in November 2014. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a current emergency action plan in place. While it does not fall under the jurisdiction of federal agencies, such as the US Army Corps of Engineers, Daniel Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and ecosystem support along Bear Creek-Tr.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Daniel Lake Dam to be a valuable asset in the local landscape, providing essential services for fire protection and wildlife habitat. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam stands as a testament to private ownership and management of water infrastructure in North Carolina. It represents a blend of functionality and environmental stewardship, contributing to the overall health and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.



°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


Dam Length

575

River Or Stream

Bear Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

21.1

Drainage Area

64

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

21.6

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.
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