Leatherman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Leatherman Lake Dam, located in Lincolnton, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 36 feet and a structural height of 43 feet, with a length of 600 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres, serving the Pott Creek-Tr river system within Catawba County.

Despite its fair condition assessment and a high hazard potential, Leatherman Lake Dam is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program. The last inspection date was in December 2019, with a frequency of every two years. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's emergency action plan preparation status is unknown, highlighting the importance of ensuring proper safety measures for this recreational water resource.

With its picturesque location and recreational value, Leatherman Lake Dam serves as a vital part of the local ecosystem and community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and maintenance of this dam becomes increasingly crucial. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike must stay informed and engaged in the ongoing management and regulation efforts to protect and preserve Leatherman Lake Dam for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

600

River Or Stream

Pott Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

300

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

43

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

43
       
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.