Bonner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bonner Lake Dam in Altamahaw, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation, designed by USDA NRCS in 1981.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 23 feet and hydraulic height of 12 feet, holding a normal storage capacity of 34 acre-feet and serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in Rockingham County. Located on Troublesome Creek-Tr, the dam spans 185 feet in length and covers a surface area of 11.3 acres, with a drainage area of 1280 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, Bonner Lake Dam underwent its last inspection in July 2013 and was deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam's spillway operates uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 920 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety of downstream areas. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam is well-maintained and managed to meet safety guidelines. With its scenic surroundings and recreational opportunities, Bonner Lake Dam remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the natural beauty of North Carolina's waterways.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

185

River Or Stream

Troublesome Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.3

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1280

Nid Storage

102

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.