Sharon Lake Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sharon Lake Lower Dam in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 22.5 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in providing water storage of up to 24 feet. With a surface area of 2.5 acres and a drainage area of 189 square miles, Sharon Lake Lower Dam is a significant feature along the Little Sugar Creek-Os river.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is rated as fair as of the last inspection in December 2020. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk assessment details for the dam are currently not available. However, it is noted that the dam is state-regulated, with inspections, permitting, and enforcement handled by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The structure is vital for recreational activities, such as boating and fishing, and it serves as a key component of the local water resource infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sharon Lake Lower Dam presents an interesting case study in dam safety and management. With its location in Mecklenburg County and under the jurisdiction of the state, this dam showcases the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to ensure public safety and the sustainability of water resources. As efforts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition, it serves as a reminder of the critical role that such structures play in both recreation and water management in the region.

Dam Length

180

River Or Stream

Little Sugar Crk-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

22.5

Drainage Area

189

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.