Cook Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Davie, North Carolina, Cook Lake Dam is a privately-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet and a structural height of 23.5 feet, the dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Ellsworth Creek, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Despite its low hazard potential, Cook Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection conducted in November 2020 deemed the dam to be in "Not Rated" condition. While the dam does not fall under state regulation, it is reassuring to know that there are measures in place to monitor its performance and address any potential risks. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of maintaining such infrastructure for both recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation.

As a part of the Wilmington District in North Carolina, Cook Lake Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human recreation and natural preservation. Its peaceful waters and surrounding landscape provide a sanctuary for wildlife and a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. With a focus on safety and regular inspections, this earth-type dam continues to serve as a vital resource for the community while respecting the delicate ecosystem it supports.

Dam Length

600

River Or Stream

Ellsworth Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Drainage Area

70

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

23.5

Hazard Potential

Low

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.