Willowcroft Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Willowcroft Dam, also known as Chestnut Lane Dam, is a private dam located in Union County, North Carolina, along the West Fork Twelve Mile Creek.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a hydraulic height of 9.5 feet and a structural height of 11.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 4 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.7 acres, Willowcroft Dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem and provides opportunities for outdoor activities in the area.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Willowcroft Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced upon to ensure public safety and environmental conservation. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in December 2019 rated it as fair. The dam has a history of regular inspections and emergency action plans, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its structural integrity and safeguarding against potential risks.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Willowcroft Dam can appreciate its significance in providing recreational opportunities while being a subject of regulatory oversight and safety measures. The dam's location in a natural setting along the Twelve Mile Creek adds to its charm, making it a valuable asset for the community and a notable feature in Union County's environmental landscape.

Dam Length

280

River Or Stream

West Fork Twelve Mile Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.7

Hydraulic Height

9.5

Drainage Area

115

Nid Storage

4

Structural Height

11.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.