Fernhill Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fernhill Pond Dam, also known as Lancaster Investment Corp Dam or Woodwinds Dam, is a private dam located in Charlotte, North Carolina.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 33.9 feet with a hydraulic height of 27.4 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 44 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4 acres and draining a 41-square-mile watershed area.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2020, Fernhill Pond Dam poses a high hazard potential. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with regular inspections conducted every two years. While the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, it is crucial for the owners to adhere to safety guidelines and emergency action plans to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of downstream communities.

With its picturesque location on the Kings Branch-Tr river, Fernhill Pond Dam offers a serene recreational space in Mecklenburg County. However, being a privately-owned structure, it is essential for the owners to prioritize maintenance and compliance with regulatory requirements to safeguard the surrounding environment and communities from any potential hazards or emergencies. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Fernhill Pond Dam is vital in promoting sustainable water stewardship and resilience in the face of changing climate dynamics.

Dam Length

450

River Or Stream

Kings Branch-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

27.4

Drainage Area

41

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

33.9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.