Windrow Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cornwell Dam Griffin Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Windrow Dam, located in Matthews, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
The dam, situated on the Crooked Creek-Tr river system, is primarily used for recreational purposes and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet and a structural height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 4.7 acres and serves a drainage area of 44.3 square miles.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2020, Windrow Dam is classified with a high hazard potential, highlighting the critical importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has an inspection frequency of every two years, with emergency action plans being possibly outdated since September 2010. As an earth-type dam with no associated locks, Windrow Dam's risk management measures and inundation maps status remain unspecified, pointing to potential areas for further improvement to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource in Mecklenburg County.
Given its strategic location and crucial role in water management, Windrow Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As the dam continues to serve as a recreational hub while facing potential hazards, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts by regulatory agencies are essential to safeguarding both the dam's structural integrity and the surrounding community from any unforeseen risks or emergencies.
Dam Length |
375 |
River Or Stream |
Crooked Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
44.3 |
Nid Storage |
17 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Windrow Dam