Cottonade Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harris Dam Edens Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Cottonade Dam, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on Beaver Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, with a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, offers a serene setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. With a reservoir storage capacity of 64 acre-feet, the dam provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape.
Although the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, it was last inspected in July 2013. With a history dating back to an unknown completion year, Cottonade Dam continues to serve as a popular recreational spot in Cumberland County. Despite its lack of state regulation and permitting, the dam remains a vital part of the local community, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for residents and visitors alike to appreciate the beauty of nature and water resources.
In the care of private ownership, Cottonade Dam stands as a testament to the importance of preserving water resources for recreational purposes. While its maintenance and inspection frequency may be sporadic, the dam remains a beloved landmark in the region. With its tranquil surroundings and potential for leisure activities, Cottonade Dam is a valuable asset for those who appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate in their pursuit of outdoor enjoyment.
Dam Length |
125 |
River Or Stream |
Beaver Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River At Manchester
|
161cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
6cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1070cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
314cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
55cfs |
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.
Cottonade Dam