Samonds Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.
Wind
Humidity
The dam measures 12.7 feet in structural height and 8.2 feet in hydraulic height, with a length of 280 feet and a storage capacity of 21 acre-feet. The dam also covers a surface area of 2.7 acres and is associated with an unnamed tributary to Irwin Creek.
The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in December 2019 deemed it satisfactory. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in October 2016, and the dam is subject to regular inspections every two years.
Overall, Samonds Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intricate regulatory framework and engineering considerations involved in managing a structure that serves both environmental and recreational purposes. Its location in Mecklenburg County, along with its functional design and storage capacity, make it a valuable asset for the local ecosystem and an essential component of water resource management in the region.
Dam Length |
280 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Irwin Cre |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.2 |
Drainage Area |
63 |
Nid Storage |
21 |
Structural Height |
12.7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
13 |