Merchants Lake Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Merchants Lake Dam Lower in Stokesdale, North Carolina, stands as a private-owned recreational site along the East Belews Creek-Tr river.


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Summary

With a structural height of 26.2 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet, this earth dam offers a serene 3.5-acre surface area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. Although the dam's condition assessment is reported as poor, its hazard potential remains low, making it a safe destination for outdoor activities.

Despite being non-state regulated, Merchants Lake Dam Lower has undergone inspections as recently as October 2014. The dam boasts a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 35 acre-feet, ensuring ample water resources for its recreational purposes. As a haven for local anglers, hikers, and nature lovers, this dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while also offering a glimpse into North Carolina's diverse waterways.

As the Huntington District oversees this dam's upkeep, the recreational opportunities provided by Merchants Lake Dam Lower continue to attract visitors seeking solace in nature. With its picturesque surroundings and low hazard potential, this earth dam remains a cherished destination for those interested in water resources, climate, and outdoor recreation in the Guilford County area.

Dam Length

333

River Or Stream

East Belews Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

26.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.