Emerald Lake Golf Course Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 11, 2025
Emerald Lake Golf Course Dam, also known as Mitchells Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Union County, North Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet. The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 50 acre-feet. Situated on Paddle Branch, the dam covers a surface area of 5 acres and has a drainage area of 237 square miles.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2020, the dam poses a high hazard potential. The last inspection took place in December 2020, with inspections scheduled every two years. As a state-regulated structure, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a maximum discharge capacity of 158 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status remain unspecified. The dam's location in the Wilmington District underscores its importance for water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Emerald Lake Golf Course Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and recreational water management. With its history dating back to the late 1960s, the dam's presence along Paddle Branch contributes to the local landscape and ecosystem. Understanding the complexities of dam design, regulation, and maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety of such structures and the surrounding communities. As efforts continue to monitor and manage the dam's condition, ongoing research and engagement are essential for sustainable water resource practices in Union County and beyond.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
396 |
River Or Stream |
Paddle Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
237 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Emerald Lake Golf Course Dam
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