Mcewen Estate Dam

Back Creek· Alamance, North Carolina· Built 1950· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Mcewen Estate Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 Length480 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage142 acre-ft
Normal Storage58 acre-ft
Surface Area15 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge4,432 cfs
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDNC01734

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: February 16, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Waterford At The Lake Master Association, Inc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mcewen Estate Dam?

Mcewen Estate 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 Mcewen Estate Dam?

Mcewen Estate Dam is owned by Waterford At The Lake Master Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mcewen Estate Dam built?

Mcewen Estate Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Mcewen Estate Dam?

Mcewen Estate 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 Mcewen Estate Dam last inspected?

Mcewen Estate Dam was last inspected on February 16, 2023. 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.