University Place Dam

Mallard Creek· Mecklenburg, North Carolina· Built 1985· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

University Place Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1985 and is 41 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 Length400 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage193 acre-ft
Normal Storage158 acre-ft
Surface Area11 acres
Drainage Area62 sq mi
Max Discharge1,027 cfs
Year Completed1985 (41 years old)
NID IDNC03453

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: March 8, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

University Place Owners Association, Inc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of University Place Dam?

University Place 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 University Place Dam?

University Place Dam is owned by University Place Owners Association, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was University Place Dam built?

University Place Dam was completed in 1985, making it 41 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 University Place Dam?

University Place 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 University Place Dam last inspected?

University Place Dam was last inspected on March 8, 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.