Donald Bell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Donald Bell Dam, located in Cliffside, North Carolina, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 20.4 feet and a structural height of 27.5 feet, this dam spans 150 feet in length and holds a storage capacity of 33 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Branch Creek, was last inspected in February 2012 and was deemed to have a low hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Donald Bell Dam offers a serene recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam's location in Rutherford County, North Carolina, provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. With a surface area of 2.5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, the dam offers a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking tranquility in nature.
Although Donald Bell Dam may not be a prominent feature on the state's regulatory radar, its contribution to the local community as a recreational haven is undeniable. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management and a reminder of the beauty and serenity that can be found in the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes.
Dam Length |
150 |
River Or Stream |
Branch Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.4 |
Nid Storage |
33 |
Structural Height |
27.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Donald Bell Dam