Little Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Little Dam, located in Hickory, North Carolina, serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power along the Gunpowder Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a structural height of 22 feet and a hydraulic height of 20 feet, this concrete buttress dam stands as a beacon of sustainable energy production in the region. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 11 acres, making it a significant contributor to the local water resource management efforts.
Despite its high hazard potential, Little Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, signaling a need for further inspection and maintenance. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status remains unknown, raising concerns about the preparedness for potential risks. As enthusiasts in water resources and climate, there is a compelling opportunity to advocate for enhanced safety measures and risk management strategies to safeguard this critical hydroelectric infrastructure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of Little Dam in providing sustainable hydroelectric power and regulating water flow along Gunpowder Creek. The dam's location in Caldwell County, North Carolina, highlights its significance in the region's energy infrastructure. However, with its high hazard potential and lacking condition assessment, there is a pressing need for increased attention to inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the long-term viability and safety of this essential water resource structure. By advocating for improved risk management measures and adherence to guidelines, we can help protect Little Dam and support its continued contribution to the local energy grid and water resource management efforts.
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Gunpowder Creek |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
23040 |
Nid Storage |
130 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Henry Fork Near Henry River
|
41cfs |
Lower Little River Nr All Healing Springs
|
18cfs |
Yadkin River At Patterson
|
24cfs |
Jacob Fork At Ramsey
|
17cfs |
Johns River At Arneys Store
|
173cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
42cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Little Dam
Glenn C Hilton Jr Memorial Park
Neill Clark Jr Recreation Park
Sawmills Community Park
Bakers Mountain Park