Mcewen Estate Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcewen Estate Dam, also known as Waterford Lake, is a private dam located in Alamance, North Carolina, along Back Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 24 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a normal storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 142 acre-feet. The dam has a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a length of 480 feet, providing a surface area of 15 acres for leisure activities.

Managed and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Mcewen Estate Dam has a high hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity. The condition assessment as of December 2020 deemed the dam satisfactory, with emergency action plans in place. In case of any unforeseen events, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 4432 cubic feet per second, showcasing its importance in protecting the surrounding community and environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcewen Estate Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding against potential hazards highlights the delicate balance required in managing water resources. With its storied history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in Alamance, North Carolina, showcasing the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Back Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

142

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.