Palmetto Lake Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Palmetto Lake Lower Dam Gamblin Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Palmetto Lake Upper Dam, located in Pea Ridge, North Carolina, is a private dam regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at a structural height of 38 feet with a hydraulic height of 30.1 feet. It impounds Cove Creek, creating a surface area of 7 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet.
Although the dam's last inspection took place in 2014 and was deemed to be in satisfactory condition, its significant hazard potential highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. While the dam has not experienced any modifications or emergency preparedness assessments in recent years, its state-regulated status ensures that it undergoes necessary inspections, permitting, and enforcement to mitigate risks to surrounding communities and the environment.
With its picturesque location and vital role in providing recreational opportunities, Palmetto Lake Upper Dam is a valuable asset in the region. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the engineering and regulatory efforts that go into managing this earth-type dam, ensuring its safe operation for both present and future generations.
Dam Length |
253 |
River Or Stream |
Cove Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.1 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Palmetto Lake Upper Dam