Cardinal Cove Dam At Crystal Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cardinal Cove Dam At Crystal Lake, also known as Wood Lake, is a private dam located in Guilford County, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 84 acre-feet and a normal storage of 53 acre-feet. The dam has a structural height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, providing a surface area of 12 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite being privately owned, Cardinal Cove Dam At Crystal Lake undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, this dam is considered safe for public use. Situated on Brush Creek-Tr and surrounded by the natural beauty of Ossipee, this dam offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to enjoy the peaceful waters of Crystal Lake.

Although not federally regulated, Cardinal Cove Dam At Crystal Lake is a notable feature in the Wilmington District, attracting visitors with its recreational opportunities and picturesque surroundings. With its rich history dating back to the 1960s and its ongoing maintenance and inspections, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and the preservation of natural habitats in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

531

River Or Stream

Brush Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.