Cornwell Dam
Key Takeaway
Cornwell Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 358 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 211 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 336 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 33 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1990 |
| NID ID | NC00328 |
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
Walter Ray Cornwell
Private
Nearby Dams
Windrow Dam
Mecklenburg, NC
High HazardDevore Dam
Mecklenburg, NC
High HazardDevore Dam #2
Mecklenburg, NC
High HazardDevore Dam #1
Mecklenburg, NC
High HazardPine Lake Country Club Dam
Mecklenburg, NC
Low HazardGriffin Pond Dam
Union, NC
High HazardMarglyn Townhomes Dam
Mecklenburg, NC
High HazardPrimax Properties Dam
Union, NC
Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cornwell Dam?
Cornwell 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 Cornwell Dam?
Cornwell Dam is owned by Walter Ray Cornwell (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cornwell Dam built?
Cornwell Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Cornwell Dam?
Cornwell 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 Cornwell Dam last inspected?
Cornwell Dam was last inspected on April 7, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.