Waddell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Situated in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, Waddell Lake Dam stands as a serene oasis along Beaverdam Creek-Tr, offering a tranquil setting for recreation enthusiasts.


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Summary

This private dam, completed in 1956, boasts an earth structure with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. With a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, the dam provides a surface area of 4 acres for visitors to enjoy various water activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Waddell Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in January 2019. While its condition remains unrated, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of recreation, attracting locals and tourists alike to Red River Sc. With a drainage area of 154 square miles and a maximum discharge of 23 cubic feet per second, this picturesque dam serves as a vital water resource within the Wilmington District.

As climate change intensifies, the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources like Waddell Lake Dam becomes increasingly paramount. With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and recreational offerings, this dam exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in North Carolina's diverse landscape.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Beaverdam Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

154

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.