Emerson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emerson Lake Dam, located in Cabarrus, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily built for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, this dam holds a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, serving the nearby Coddle Creek-Os river and stream. The dam spans 250 feet in length and covers a surface area of three acres, making it a significant water resource in the region.

Even though Emerson Lake Dam is not state-regulated, it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential, highlighting the need for careful monitoring and maintenance. The last inspection in November 2018 showed that the dam's condition was not rated, emphasizing the importance of continued assessments and risk management measures to prevent any potential incidents or emergencies.

With its picturesque location in Roberta Mill and the recreational opportunities it offers, Emerson Lake Dam is a vital resource for both residents and visitors alike. Its role in water conservation and management reinforces the importance of sustainable practices in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the state of dams like Emerson Lake is crucial for promoting environmental stewardship and resilience in the face of future challenges.

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Coddle Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

51

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.