Gaston Recreational Lake #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Gaston Recreational Lake #1, located in Gaston County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam structure built on Long Creek-Tributary.


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Summary

The dam serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 2.5 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, this low hazard potential dam provides a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Gaston Recreational Lake #1 is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The dam, with a drainage area of 30 square miles, has a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 378 cubic feet per second. The last inspection in October 2018 rated its condition as "Not Rated," indicating that it is well-maintained and poses minimal risk to the surrounding area. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to provide a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature in Gaston County.

Gaston Recreational Lake #1, with its tranquil setting and recreational opportunities, is a gem for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in Gastonia, North Carolina. While privately owned, this earth dam structure offers a safe environment for visitors to engage in outdoor activities and enjoy the natural beauty of Long Creek-Tributary. With its low hazard potential and regular inspections, the dam ensures the safety and well-being of both the surrounding community and the environment, making it a valuable asset for those who appreciate and cherish our water resources.

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Long Creek-Trib.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.