Bel-Air Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bel-Air Lake Dam, located in Lincolnton, Catawba, North Carolina, was completed in 1961 for the primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

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
       
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.