Arrowhead Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Arrowhead Lake Dam, located in Sherwood Forest, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earthen dam spans 400 feet in length with a structural height of 35 feet, creating a surface area of 4.6 acres and a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Morgan Creek and is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state regulations for inspection, enforcement, and permitting.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Arrowhead Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and the potential impact of a dam failure on downstream areas. The dam has a designated emergency action plan (EAP) preparedness level, with the last revision dating back to February 2015. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent inspection occurring in March 2020, to assess the dam's integrity and safety measures. The dam's hazard potential and risk management measures are crucial aspects for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and understand in the context of dam safety and environmental protection.

In the event of an emergency, it is essential for stakeholders and emergency responders to be aware of the emergency contacts and procedures outlined in the EAP. The dam's hazard potential, risk assessment, and risk management measures play a significant role in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. With its location in Transylvania County and its regulated status by state authorities, Arrowhead Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Morgan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.