University Place Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
University Place Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
Completed in 1985, this earth-type dam serves a primary purpose of recreation and stands at a hydraulic height of 37 feet with a structural height of 45 feet. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 192.6 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding community.
With a drainage area of 123 square miles and a maximum discharge of 1027 cubic feet per second, University Place Dam plays a crucial role in managing flood risk and ensuring water availability in the Mallard Creek watershed. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of December 2019, with regular inspections and a well-maintained emergency action plan in place. This vital infrastructure supports not only recreational activities but also contributes to the overall water resource management efforts in the region.
As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, University Place Dam underscores the importance of effective dam safety regulations and maintenance practices in mitigating potential risks and safeguarding communities against flooding events. With its strategic location in Mecklenburg County, this dam serves as a key asset for water supply, flood control, and recreational purposes, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the proper management and upkeep of structures like University Place Dam are essential for ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1985 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
Mallard Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
123 |
Nid Storage |
192.6 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
45 |
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.
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