Prestwood Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Prestwood Lake Dam, located in Caldwell, North Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes.
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Summary
With a structural height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet, this dam plays a significant role in supporting the local ecosystem. However, despite its importance, the dam is currently classified as having a poor condition assessment and a significant hazard potential.
The dam has not been inspected since February 2013, raising concerns about its structural integrity and safety. With no state regulation or permitting in place, there is a need for increased monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and wildlife. The lack of an Emergency Action Plan and updated risk assessment further underscores the need for proactive measures to address potential hazards associated with the dam.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to advocate for proper maintenance and oversight of dams like Prestwood Lake Dam to mitigate potential risks and protect the environment. By working with relevant agencies and stakeholders, we can ensure the safety and sustainability of these critical water infrastructure assets for future generations.
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yadkin River At Patterson
|
24cfs |
Johns River At Arneys Store
|
173cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
42cfs |
Henry Fork Near Henry River
|
41cfs |
Lower Little River Nr All Healing Springs
|
18cfs |
Linville River Near Nebo
|
75cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Prestwood Lake Dam