Bel-Air Lake Dam, located in Lincolnton, Catawba, North Carolina, was completed in 1961 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
This privately-owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 42 feet with a hydraulic height of 37 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 148 acre-feet. The dam spans 498 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6.9 acres, serving as a popular destination for water enthusiasts in the region.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Bel-Air Lake Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam provides a vital recreational resource while also serving as a key component of the local water infrastructure. The dam's location on South Fork Creek-Os, within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, highlights its importance in managing water resources in the area.
Visitors to Bel-Air Lake Dam can enjoy various recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking in a scenic natural setting. The dam's association with the Catawba River watershed and its role in regulating water flow and storage underscore its significance in both water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As a well-maintained structure with a history of safe operation, Bel-Air Lake Dam remains a vital asset for the community and a symbol of responsible water resource development in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
498 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Creek-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
64 |
Nid Storage |
178 |
Structural Height |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
42 |
Henry Fork Near Henry River
|
41cfs |
Indian Creek Near Laboratory
|
608cfs |
Jacob Fork At Ramsey
|
17cfs |
Killian Creek Near Mariposa
|
37cfs |
Long Creek Near Bessemer City
|
13cfs |
South Fork Catawba River At Lowell
|
396cfs |