Spring Lake Dam, located in Randolph County, North Carolina, was completed in 1954 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam stands at a structural height of 28.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet, holding back the waters of the West Fork Little River-Tr. With a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 66 cubic feet per second, this dam covers a surface area of 4 acres and drains a watershed of 22 square miles.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Spring Lake Dam has a satisfactory condition assessment and a low hazard potential. The last inspection in 2016 deemed the structure to be in good working order. While there are no emergency action plans prepared or inundation maps available, the dam meets guidelines for safety. As a significant feature in the local landscape, Spring Lake Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also contributes to the overall water resource management in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Spring Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam in North Carolina. Its historical significance, engineering features, and impact on the surrounding ecosystem make it a valuable asset to the community. As discussions around dam safety and management continue, Spring Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human development and natural resource conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
West Fork Little River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
25.5 |
Drainage Area |
22 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
28.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp 7
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Camp 8B
|
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East Morris Mountain
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West Morris Mtn. Campground
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West Morris Mtn.
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Uwharrie Hunt Camp
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