Poplar Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Poplar Lake Dam, located in Caldwell, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 23.5 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, this earth-type dam boasts a length of 330 feet and a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Little Gunpowder Creek-Tr river, offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities in a picturesque environment.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Poplar Lake Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of January 2018. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement processes. With a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres, the dam provides both a functional water resource and a scenic backdrop for visitors to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural beauty.

For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations, Poplar Lake Dam offers a tangible example of how dams can serve multiple purposes while facing regulatory oversight. With its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

330

River Or Stream

Little Gunpowder Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

23.5

Nid Storage

42

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

26
       
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.