Cooper Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cooper Lake Dam, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, stands as a vital water resource and recreation site in the area.
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Summary
Managed by a private entity, this earthen dam is designed for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for visitors seeking outdoor activities along the Salem Creek. With a hydraulic height of 21.8 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, making it a crucial component in water management and conservation efforts in the region.
Although not federally regulated, Cooper Lake Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community. The dam, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of November 2013, continues to play a key role in flood control and water storage. While it may not have a significant impact on the overall water supply, its presence highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for continual monitoring and maintenance of vital infrastructure like dams.
As a popular spot for recreation, Cooper Lake Dam serves as a picturesque destination for locals and tourists alike, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Its location within the Wilmington District and close proximity to the city of Winston-Salem further enhances its appeal as a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts and climate advocates. With its rich history and role in water resource management, Cooper Lake Dam stands as a symbol of harmony between human activity and environmental conservation in the region.
Dam Length |
320 |
River Or Stream |
Salem Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.8 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yadkin River At Enon
|
1080cfs |
Yadkin River At Yadkin College
|
1340cfs |
Abbotts Creek At Lexington
|
31cfs |
Little Yadkin River At Dalton
|
16cfs |
East Fork Deep River Near High Point
|
5cfs |
South Yadkin River Near Mocksville
|
230cfs |
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.
Cooper Lake Dam
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