Young Lake Dam, located in Dunn, North Carolina, on the Black River, was completed in 1870 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This private earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, with a length of 810 feet and a storage capacity of 389 acre-feet. The dam's normal storage level reaches 324 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 40 acres for recreational activities.
Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Young Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its condition being marked as "Not Rated" during the last assessment in February 2021. The dam has not been state-regulated, permitted, or enforced upon, raising concerns about its safety and maintenance. With a maximum discharge capacity of 330 cubic feet per second, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness are unspecified, leaving room for potential risks and safety issues for the surrounding community and environment.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should closely monitor the condition and maintenance of Young Lake Dam, given its age, hazard potential, and recreational significance. As an unregulated private structure, the dam's risk assessment, emergency action plans, and overall safety measures should be thoroughly evaluated and updated to ensure the protection of both the dam and the surrounding area. With a historical background dating back to the 19th century, Young Lake Dam represents a blend of heritage, recreation, and potential risks that require attention and proactive management in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource dynamics.
Year Completed |
1870 |
Dam Length |
810 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
389 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |