Sycamore Ridge Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sycamore Ridge Dam, located in Concord, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet and a structural height of 14.9 feet, with a total length of 282 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 7 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 8 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 1.3 acres within a drainage area of 13 square miles. The dam is situated on a tributary to Cold Water Creek and is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Sycamore Ridge Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection date in January 2020. The dam has an inspection frequency of 2 years, indicating regular monitoring and maintenance practices to ensure its safety and structural integrity. While details on the dam's construction year and specific hazard mitigation measures are not provided, the presence of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms suggest a commitment to ensuring the safety of the dam and surrounding community in the event of an emergency. Overall, Sycamore Ridge Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and sustainability of recreational dams.

Dam Length

282

River Or Stream

Tributary to Cold Water Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.3

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

8

Structural Height

14.9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.