Mcconnell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcconnell Dam, located in Mecklenburg, North Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed on the West Branch Rocky River-Os.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, this dam primarily serves a recreational purpose. Spanning 153 feet in length and holding a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet, Mcconnell Dam is a significant structure in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2020, Mcconnell Dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and there are no associated structures or outlet gates. However, the dam does undergo regular inspections, with the last one taking place in October 2020. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is subject to state inspections, ensuring its safety and functionality for recreational purposes.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcconnell Dam provides a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure and natural resources. From its location in Cornelius to its role in providing recreational opportunities along the West Branch Rocky River-Os, this dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the importance of proper maintenance and inspection to ensure public safety and environmental protection in the face of potential hazards.

Dam Length

153

River Or Stream

West Branch Rocky River-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Nid Storage

12

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.