Gilmer Phillips Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gilmer Phillips Dam, located in Davidson, North Carolina, was completed in 1999 and serves as a recreational site along Dunkers Creek.


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Summary

The dam is privately owned and stands at a structural height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet. It has a storage capacity of 33.2 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.2 acres, making it an ideal spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to visit and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty.

Despite being classified with a low hazard potential, Gilmer Phillips Dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2013. While it is not under state regulation or permitting, it is subject to periodic inspections to uphold safety standards. With its serene location and contribution to the local ecosystem, the dam provides a unique opportunity for visitors to engage with water resources and climate dynamics in a hands-on way.

In the event of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not readily available, but its low hazard potential suggests that the surrounding community is at minimal risk. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, Gilmer Phillips Dam stands as a notable landmark in the area, offering a glimpse into the intersection of water resources, climate considerations, and human intervention in shaping the environment.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

315

River Or Stream

Dunkers Crk-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.2

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Drainage Area

50.2

Nid Storage

33.2

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

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.