Caldwell Lake, located in Harrisburg, North Carolina, is a privately-owned recreational water resource managed by the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Wind
Humidity
With a surface area of 4 acres and a drainage area of 25.6 acres, this earth dam structure has a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. The lake offers a maximum storage capacity of 32 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 25.6 acre-feet.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2020, Caldwell Lake poses a significant hazard potential due to its proximity to Back Creek-Tr and its significant storage capacity. The dam structure has not been modified in recent years, and its last inspection reported fair conditions. Although there is no state regulation or permitting in place for this dam, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and integrity. Additionally, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising concerns about emergency preparedness in case of a potential failure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Caldwell Lake offers a unique opportunity for outdoor recreation in Mecklenburg County. As a privately-owned facility with no federal funding or regulatory oversight, the lake serves as a prime example of community-managed water resources. Its location along Back Creek-Tr provides a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. While the dam's condition is fair and its hazard potential is significant, continued monitoring and maintenance efforts are essential to ensure the safety of visitors and nearby residents.
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
Back Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
25.6 |
Nid Storage |
32 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
20 |