Earth Movers Dam Lower Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Earth Movers Dam Lower, located in Iredell, North Carolina, along the Catawba River-Tributary, is a privately owned dam primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, with a length of 400 feet and a NID storage capacity of 127 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 74 acre-feet and a surface area of 7.1 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities in the area.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Earth Movers Dam Lower is subject to regular state inspection, regulation, and enforcement by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program. With a maximum discharge of 538 cubic feet per second and a drainage area of 207 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and storage in the region. Its last inspection in December 2020 revealed that it meets safety guidelines and is equipped to handle emergencies, ensuring the protection of nearby communities and ecosystems.
With its picturesque location and vital role in water resource management, Earth Movers Dam Lower stands as a testament to the importance of private infrastructure in supporting recreational activities and environmental sustainability. As a key player in the Catawba River watershed, this dam serves as a symbol of responsible stewardship and collaborative efforts to safeguard water resources for future generations.
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba River-Trib. |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
207 |
Nid Storage |
127 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Earth Movers Dam Lower