Hidden Landing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hidden Landing Dam, also known as Harris Lake Dam or Verndale Dam, is a private dam located in Charlotte, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the Mecklenburg County government, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 14.5 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Mcalpine Creek-Tr. With a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet, this dam spans 150 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6.2 acres.

Despite its private ownership, Hidden Landing Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a high hazard potential, the dam is considered to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in January 2020. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure, with emergency action plans in place should the need arise.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hidden Landing Dam a fascinating subject of study, given its role in providing recreational opportunities while also being a critical component of water management in the region. As a privately owned dam with state oversight, it exemplifies the complex interplay between public and private interests in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure. With its location in a densely populated area and high hazard potential, the management of Hidden Landing Dam serves as a testament to the importance of effective regulation and monitoring in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with dam failures.

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

Mcalpine Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.2

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

97

Nid Storage

36

Structural Height

14.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.