Watson Lake Dam #1
Key Takeaway
Watson Lake Dam #1 is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 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 | 459 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 579 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 389 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 62 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,757 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1928 (98 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00067 |
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
Country Club of NC
Private
Nearby Dams
Watson Lake Dam #2
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High HazardYadco Lake Dam
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High HazardEighteenth Fairway Dam
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High HazardPinehurst National Golf Course Dam #1
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High HazardFairwoods Dam #4
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High HazardPinehurst National Dam #3a
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High HazardAberdeen Town Lake Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watson Lake Dam #1?
Watson Lake Dam #1 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 Watson Lake Dam #1?
Watson Lake Dam #1 is owned by Country Club of NC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watson Lake Dam #1 built?
Watson Lake Dam #1 was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Watson Lake Dam #1?
Watson Lake Dam #1 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 Watson Lake Dam #1 last inspected?
Watson Lake Dam #1 was last inspected on January 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.