Estes Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Estes Lake Dam, also known as Ledbetter Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Union Mills, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 24.5 feet and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond for the surrounding area. The dam has a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet and spans a length of 344 feet, providing a surface area of 6 acres for recreational activities.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Estes Lake Dam is regulated by the NCDEQ and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of April 2017. While the dam does not have associated storage or discharge capacity data available, its primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats underscores its importance in maintaining ecological balance in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Estes Lake Dam represents a vital component of the local ecosystem in McDowell County. With its role in supporting fish and wildlife populations and providing recreational opportunities, this privately owned earth dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water management practices in safeguarding natural habitats and enhancing community resilience to climate impacts.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

344

River Or Stream

UT to Second Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Structural Height

24.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.