Boot Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Boot Lake Dam, also known as Sherwood Forest Sd Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Sherwood Forest, North Carolina.


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Summary

This dam, regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, serves primarily for recreational purposes along Morgan Creek. With a hydraulic height of 29.2 feet and a structural height of 33 feet, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, with a maximum storage of 59 acre-feet.

Despite its scenic surroundings and recreational significance, Boot Lake Dam has been assessed as being in poor condition with a significant hazard potential. The last inspection in March 2020 raised concerns about its upkeep and safety. With a history of modifications and a flood risk assessment pending, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are under scrutiny to ensure the safety of the community and environment in case of any unforeseen events.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the management and maintenance of Boot Lake Dam present a crucial and challenging task. With its potential impact on the surrounding area and the safety of residents, the ongoing assessments and regulatory oversight by the NCDEQ play a vital role in ensuring the dam's integrity and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

240

River Or Stream

Morgan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Hydraulic Height

29.2

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

59

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.