Paradise Point Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Paradise Point Dam, located in Gaston County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built on the South Fork River-Tr.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes. It has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and covers an area of 8 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational value, Paradise Point Dam has a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition. The last inspection in March 2019 revealed the need for improvements to ensure the safety of the structure. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to mitigate risks.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of maintaining infrastructure like Paradise Point Dam to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of natural resources. By staying informed about the condition of such dams and supporting necessary upgrades and maintenance, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in our region.

Dam Length

275

River Or Stream

South Fork River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.