Brewer Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Knapp Dam Twitty Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Brewer Lake Dam, located in Union County, North Carolina, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.
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Summary
Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet, Brewer Lake Dam provides a surface area of 12 acres for outdoor activities and water sports.
Despite its importance for recreation, Brewer Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment as of December 2018. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, which conducts regular inspections and enforcement actions to ensure public safety. With a drainage area of 1197 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 110 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting downstream areas from flooding.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of Brewer Lake Dam in providing recreational opportunities while also understanding the potential risks associated with its condition. By staying informed about dam safety measures and regulations, we can contribute to the preservation of this important water infrastructure and help ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
390 |
River Or Stream |
Richardson Creek-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1197 |
Nid Storage |
67 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Brewer Lake Dam