Cowans Ford, also known as Lake Norman, is a striking hydroelectric facility located in Mecklenburg, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Managed by a public utility, this concrete dam, completed in 1963, stands at an impressive height of 134 feet and has a storage capacity of 414,100 acre-feet. The dam's primary purposes include hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply for the surrounding area.
Nestled on the Catawba River, Cowans Ford boasts a surface area of 32,510 acres and a drainage area of 1,790 square miles. With a maximum discharge of 225,612 cubic feet per second, the dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 465 feet. Despite its high hazard potential, the facility is subject to regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and reliability.
With its multi-arch core design and 11 tainter gates for water release, Cowans Ford is a vital resource in the region, contributing to both water management and renewable energy production. As climate change continues to impact water resources, this impressive structure plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demands for clean energy and sustainable water supply in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
8738 |
Dam Height |
134 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
32510 |
Hydraulic Height |
105 |
Drainage Area |
1790 |
Nid Storage |
414100 |
Structural Height |
130 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 11 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
134 |