Carson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Carson Pond Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, stands as a private-owned structure managed by the state regulatory agency NCDEQ's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this Earth-type dam boasts a hydraulic height of 15.9 feet and a structural height of 17.6 feet, providing a serene 2.5-acre surface area for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam's last inspection in February 2020 revealed its structural integrity and readiness for emergency situations.

Situated along the McAlpine Creek-Tr, Carson Pond Dam serves as a vital water resource in Mecklenburg County, offering a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors alike. Although details on its construction year are unspecified, the dam's significant storage capacity of 17.6 acre-feet and its strategic location highlight its importance in the region's water management infrastructure. With its nearby proximity to the bustling city of Charlotte, the dam presents a unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate.

As an Earth-type dam with a history of state regulation and inspection, Carson Pond Dam represents a balance between water recreation and safety measures. With its emergency action plan last revised in January 2016 and a hazard potential deemed high, the dam remains a focal point for risk management discussions and strategic measures to ensure public safety in the event of emergencies. Overall, Carson Pond Dam stands as a testament to the careful balance between water resource utilization and climate resilience in the region, offering a glimpse into the intricate interplay between man-made structures and natural ecosystems.

Dam Length

235

River Or Stream

Mcalpine Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

15.9

Nid Storage

17.6

Structural Height

17.6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.