Mcdonald Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

McDonald Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a state-regulated structure designed for flood risk reduction along a tributary to Irwin Creek.


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Summary

Owned by the state, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11.9 feet and a structural height of 13.1 feet, with a length of 265 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves as a recreational area for the community.

The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 10 acre-feet and a normal storage of 9 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1.9 acres and draining a 98-acre watershed. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2019 reported as satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted with a frequency of every 2 years, and an emergency action plan is in place to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events.

With Alma S. Adams as the representing congressional member, McDonald Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding while also providing a space for recreational activities. The dam's strategic location and design make it a vital asset for water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Mecklenburg County.

Dam Length

265

River Or Stream

tributary to Irwin Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.9

Hydraulic Height

11.9

Drainage Area

98

Nid Storage

10

Structural Height

13.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.