Hicks Crossroad Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hicks Crossroad Dike, located in Mount Holly, North Carolina, is a critical infrastructure managed by Duke Power Company for hydroelectric purposes on the Catawba River.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 3139 feet, with a storage capacity of 414,100 acre-feet and a surface area of 32,510 acres. Despite its age, the dam is regularly inspected by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to ensure its safety and functionality, with a high hazard potential due to its size and location.

This dam plays a crucial role in providing water supply, recreation, and hydroelectric power to the region, serving as a key component in managing the water resources of Mecklenburg County. While there is currently no state jurisdiction or permitting required for Hicks Crossroad Dike, its operations fall under the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's high risk assessment highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Hicks Crossroad Dike in the broader context of water management and energy production is essential. By recognizing the role of infrastructure like this dam in supporting sustainable development and resource conservation, we can appreciate the complex interplay between human activity, natural systems, and the need for responsible stewardship of our water resources in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

3139

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Catawba River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32510

Nid Storage

414100

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

30
       
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.