Waverly Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Waverly Lake Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, was completed in 1952 and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Situated on Mcalpine Creek, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a structural height of 14.6 feet with a hydraulic height of 11.6 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 18.5 acres, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Despite its age, Waverly Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 2017. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a permitting process in place, but it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. With its close proximity to Charlotte and the surrounding Mecklenburg County, the dam provides a valuable resource for the community while also serving as a reminder of the importance of proper dam maintenance and management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Waverly Lake Dam represents a harmonious blend of recreation and environmental conservation, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors while playing a crucial role in water resource management in the region. As climate change continues to impact our natural landscapes, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of such structures to ensure the safety and well-being of both the environment and the community. Waverly Lake Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human enjoyment and responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

373

River Or Stream

Mcalpine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.5

Hydraulic Height

11.6

Drainage Area

860

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

14.6

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.