Brinkley Twin Lakes Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Mount Holly, North Carolina, Brinkley Twin Lakes Dam #1 stands as a testament to water resource and climate conservation efforts.


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Summary

Built in 1950, this privately owned dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors seeking tranquility amidst nature. With a height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 19 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, ensuring a steady water supply for the Catawba River-Os.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Brinkley Twin Lakes Dam #1 is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. While not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. With its close proximity to the Catawba River-Os and a drainage area of 77 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and maintaining a balance between recreational enjoyment and environmental sustainability in Mecklenburg County.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to advocate for responsible dam management, Brinkley Twin Lakes Dam #1 stands as a reminder of the importance of balancing human needs with environmental conservation. With its storied history and ongoing commitment to safety and maintenance, this dam serves as a symbol of harmonious coexistence between nature and human activity, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance required to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Catawba River-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

77

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.