Cardinal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cardinal Lake Dam, located in Moore County, North Carolina, was completed in 1971 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This private dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 21.3 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 200 acres and a surface area of 5.3 acres, the dam is crucial for managing water resources in the region.

The dam poses a high hazard potential and has been classified as being in fair condition as of the last assessment in November 2020. Regular inspections are conducted, with a frequency of 2 times per inspection cycle. The dam is state-regulated and falls under the supervision of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite its age, Cardinal Lake Dam continues to play a vital role in the local water infrastructure, ensuring water supply for irrigation and recreation activities.

As an earth-type dam, Cardinal Lake Dam is an integral part of the local water management system, providing essential services for the surrounding area. With its strategic location on an unnamed tributary to Mill Creek, the dam's efficient operation is crucial for maintaining water availability and ensuring the safety of downstream areas. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Cardinal Lake Dam in supporting sustainable water usage and environmental conservation efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Unnamed tributary to Mill Cree

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.3

Hydraulic Height

21.3

Drainage Area

200

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.