Leatherman Lake Dam

Pott Creek· Catawba, North Carolina· Built 1967· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Leatherman Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 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 Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage200 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Drainage Area291 sq mi
Year Completed1967 (59 years old)
NID IDNC01319

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 27, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Gary W Shull

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Leatherman Lake Dam?

Leatherman 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 Leatherman Lake Dam?

Leatherman Lake Dam is owned by Gary W Shull (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Leatherman Lake Dam built?

Leatherman Lake Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Leatherman Lake Dam?

Leatherman 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 Leatherman Lake Dam last inspected?

Leatherman Lake Dam was last inspected on January 27, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.