Cobblestone Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ballantyne Lower Dam Ardrey Park Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Cobblestone Dam, also known as Bizzell Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Charlotte.
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Summary
This earth dam was built for recreational purposes, including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and of course, recreation. With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, the dam stands along the Mcalpine-Os river or stream, providing a serene and picturesque setting for visitors to enjoy.
Despite its recreational appeal, Cobblestone Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in July 2020. The dam has a storage capacity of 17 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with state inspection and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2013, highlighting the importance of preparedness for any potential risks or emergencies that may arise.
As a significant feature in the region, Cobblestone Dam serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a vital structure for fire protection and water storage purposes. Its location and design make it a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure with natural landscapes. However, ongoing maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines are crucial to ensure the long-term viability and safety of this dam for both recreational and practical use.
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Mcalpine-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Sign Language
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McDowell Nature Preserve
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Ebenezer County Park
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Cobblestone Dam
Waterford Trail Rock Hill