Wood Lake Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wood Lake Dam Lower, located in Farmer, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a drainage area of 405 acres, the dam serves to impound the Uwharrie River-Tr for recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Wood Lake Dam Lower has a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam is uncontrolled, with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. While it has not undergone recent inspections, the last assessment conducted in 2013 deemed the structure to be in good condition. With a maximum discharge capacity of 165 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Overall, Wood Lake Dam Lower is an essential piece of infrastructure in Randolph County, North Carolina, providing both recreational opportunities and water resource management functions. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, it is important to monitor and maintain dams like Wood Lake to ensure their safety and effectiveness in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

342

River Or Stream

Uwharrie River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

405

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

18
       
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.