Cantelmo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cantelmo Dam, located in Caldwell, North Carolina, along the Ut to Lower Creek, is a privately owned Earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, this dam spans 300 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet. The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, is regulated by the state with periodic inspections to ensure its safety and satisfactory condition.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Cantelmo Dam is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates to manage water discharge during heavy rainfall events. The dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and has not been significantly modified since its construction. With a surface area of 2.2 acres and a drainage area of 100 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital water resource in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cantelmo Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship in North Carolina.

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Ut to Lower Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.2

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

17

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.