Dodson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Dodson Lake Dam, located in Ramseur, North Carolina, is a private-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1948, the dam stands at a height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 15.7 feet, creating a serene lake with a storage capacity of 502 acre-feet. With a surface area of 35 acres and a drainage area of 1990 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Dodson Lake Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 2100 cubic feet per second, providing flood protection to downstream areas along the Sandy Creek-Tr. The dam's last inspection in January 2020 highlighted its adequate maintenance and emergency action plan preparedness.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Dodson Lake Dam can appreciate its historical significance and environmental impact on the surrounding Randolph County. The dam, with its picturesque surroundings and recreational opportunities, serves as a vital water management structure while also offering a peaceful retreat for visitors to enjoy nature's beauty and the serenity of the lake.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Sandy Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.7 |
Drainage Area |
1990 |
Nid Storage |
502 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dodson Lake Dam