High Meadows Lake Dam, located in Cherry Lane, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
With a hydraulic height of 39.9 feet and a structural height of 43 feet, this earth dam spans 600 feet and provides a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam sits on Laurel Branch-Tr, serving as a crucial water resource in Alleghany County.
Although the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition assessment has been rated as fair during the latest inspection in March 2021. The dam is state-regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain safety standards. Despite the potential risks associated with its hazard level, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively for irrigation and other secondary uses like fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreation.
As an important structure in the region, High Meadows Lake Dam plays a vital role in water management and resource allocation in Alleghany County. With its proximity to the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam's operation and maintenance are crucial in ensuring the safety and reliability of the water supply for both agricultural and recreational purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the effective management of dams like High Meadows Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for sustainable water use in the face of evolving environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Laurel Branch-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
39.9 |
Drainage Area |
173 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
43 |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
New River Near Galax
|
861cfs |
Chestnut Creek At Galax
|
33cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Stone Mountain State Park
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Sandy Creek Family Campground
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Site A
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Site E
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Site B
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Site C
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