Pellynwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pellynwood Lake Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private-owned earth dam built on Mcalpine Creek-Tr for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 14.2 feet and a structural height of 21.2 feet, the dam provides a surface area of 4.8 acres and a drainage area of 208.6 square miles. Its maximum storage capacity is 73 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 30 acre-feet.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Pellynwood Lake Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Regular inspections are conducted, with the last one in December 2020, to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam has a maximum discharge of 502 cubic feet per second, highlighting its importance in managing water resources in the region.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Pellynwood Lake Dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water supply, and recreation. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a key asset in the management of water resources in Mecklenburg County. Climate and water enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this structure in the sustainable development and conservation of water resources in the region.

Dam Length

175

River Or Stream

Mcalpine Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.8

Hydraulic Height

14.2

Drainage Area

208.6

Nid Storage

73

Structural Height

21.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.