Watts Lake Dam, located in Alexander, North Carolina, is a private earth dam that was completed in 1948 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a structural height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet. Although not state regulated, the dam is inspected regularly, with the last assessment taking place in September 2017, revealing a low hazard potential and an overall condition that has not been rated.
Situated on the South Yadkin River-Tr, Watts Lake Dam spans 250 feet in length and covers a surface area of 7 acres. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone any modifications over the years and does not have any associated structures. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place or inundation maps prepared, the dam is considered to be low risk, reflecting its stable and well-maintained condition. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Watts Lake Dam offers a fascinating example of a historical earth dam that continues to serve its recreational purpose with efficiency and safety in mind.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
250 |
River Or Stream |
South Yadkin River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
87 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Lower Little River Nr All Healing Springs
|
18cfs |
Yadkin River At Wilkesboro
|
423cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
42cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
Hunting Creek Near Harmony
|
93cfs |