Pritchett's Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pritchett's Lake Dam, located in Altamahaw, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational spot for water enthusiasts in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 200 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 211 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 253 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 12.5 acres.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Pritchett's Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam is categorized as having low hazard potential and was last assessed to be in satisfactory condition in December 2018. The surrounding area, including the Haw River-Tr river system, benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the dam, making it an important resource for the community.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Pritchett's Lake Dam in Guilford County, as it not only offers recreational activities but also plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a history dating back to the 1950s, this dam continues to serve its purpose effectively while ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment and residents. Its existence highlights the importance of proper dam management and maintenance in safeguarding water sources for both present and future generations.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Haw River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.5

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

666

Nid Storage

253

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.