Alexander Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alexander Lake Dam, located in Little Mills, North Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam completed in 1959 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam spans 525 feet in length and holds a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Smith Branch Creek, has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in April 2017, with its condition rated as "Not Rated".

Despite not being regulated by the state, Alexander Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and maintaining the natural ecosystem in Montgomery County. With its surface area of 12 acres and maximum discharge of 82 cubic feet per second, the dam offers a serene setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Although not currently rated for its condition, the dam's low hazard potential indicates a maintained level of safety for surrounding communities.

As a significant feature in the local landscape, Alexander Lake Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human development and environmental conservation. Its construction and operation reflect a commitment to providing recreational benefits while also ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the area. With regular inspections and a low hazard potential, the dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of infrastructure and natural beauty in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

525

River Or Stream

Smith Branch Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

104

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.