Leigh Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Leigh Lake Dam, also known as Sherwood Circle Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Gastonia, North Carolina.


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Summary

This earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet, the dam spans 300 feet in length and covers a surface area of 2.4 acres. Situated on the Catawba Creek-Tr, the dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are effectively managed.

The dam, managed by private owners, plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area while also ensuring the safety of the surrounding community. Its location within Gaston County, in close proximity to the city of Gastonia, makes it a key feature in the local landscape. With a drainage area of 51 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 38 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital component in the water resource management of the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's fair condition and consistent regulatory oversight contribute to its continued functionality and safety.

As one of the prominent structures in the Wilmington District, Leigh Lake Dam serves as a testament to the importance of private ownership in water resource management. With its recreational focus and adherence to state regulations, the dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and environmental responsibility. Its maintenance and inspection schedules, coupled with its emergency action plan preparedness, ensure that the dam continues to provide benefits to the community while mitigating potential risks. In the context of climate change and increasing water scarcity, Leigh Lake Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Catawba Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.4

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

51

Nid Storage

21

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.