Lake Sparta Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Sparta, also known as Girl Scouts of Usa Dam, is a privately owned recreational lake located in Gaston, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, this earth dam was completed in 1982 and stands at a hydraulic height of 18.7 feet. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres, drawing water from the Crowders Creek-Tr river.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Lake Sparta poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2015, indicating the need for updated preparedness in case of emergencies. With a history of state regulation and enforcement, the dam stands as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, while also serving as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

290

River Or Stream

Crowders Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

18.7

Drainage Area

75

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

21.9

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.