James Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Lake Dam, located in Hickory, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed of earth with a stone core and soil foundation, has a hydraulic height of 19.5 feet and a structural height of 26 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.5 acres, the dam serves as a vital resource for water conservation and ecosystem support in the Catawba region.

Despite being unregulated by the state, James Lake Dam poses a low hazard potential and has not undergone a recent condition assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks for navigation purposes. With its last inspection conducted in October 2016, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3) and highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure in the face of potential climate-related challenges. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of James Lake Dam in providing essential water storage and habitat support in the region, while also recognizing the importance of continued maintenance and monitoring to mitigate risks and ensure long-term sustainability.

River Or Stream

Hop Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Hydraulic Height

19.5

Nid Storage

16

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.