Lake Monroe Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Lee Dam Dot Quarry Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Monroe Dam, located in Monroe, North Carolina, is a vital structure primarily serving recreational purposes and water supply.
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Summary
Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 37 feet and a structural height of 46 feet, with a length of 770 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 2721 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1765 acre-feet, ensuring water availability for various activities.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Lake Monroe Dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2020. With a maximum discharge capacity of 7500 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels along Richardson Creek. Despite its age, regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential water resource infrastructure. As a key component of the Union, North Carolina water system, Lake Monroe Dam continues to be a significant asset for the region's water management and recreational needs.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
770 |
River Or Stream |
Richardson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
118 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Nid Storage |
2721 |
Structural Height |
46 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
46 |
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.
Lake Monroe Dam