Woodhall Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Woodhall Dam, located in Union, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built in 2000 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 13.1 feet, this dam boasts a length of 320 feet and a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 233 square miles and a maximum discharge of 424 cubic feet per second, Woodhall Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Woodhall Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam, situated on a tributary to Cowhorn Branch, serves as a vital recreational area with a surface area of 5.2 acres for outdoor enthusiasts. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a significant structure for both water resource management and climate-related activities in the area.

With a focus on maintaining public safety and promoting recreational opportunities, Woodhall Dam continues to be a key asset in Union, North Carolina. As efforts are made to monitor and manage the dam's risk factors, its role in water resource management and climate resilience remains essential. As a privately owned structure with state regulation, Woodhall Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing environmental conservation with recreational enjoyment in the region.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

tributary to Cowhorn Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.2

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

233

Nid Storage

27

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.
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Area Campgrounds