Cole Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cole Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 81 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 58 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9 acres |
| Max Discharge | 67 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01049 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Coles Pond Owners Association, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Lake Swannanoa Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardDairy Pond Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardBoles Lake Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardWillowhaven Lake Dam #2
Durham, NC
High HazardCrystal Lake Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardNewcomb Lake Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardWilliams Terminal Reservoir Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardLake Vista Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cole Lake Dam?
Cole Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Cole Lake Dam?
Cole Lake Dam is owned by Coles Pond Owners Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cole Lake Dam built?
Cole Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cole Lake Dam?
Cole Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Cole Lake Dam last inspected?
Cole Lake Dam was last inspected on March 4, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.