|
Table
of Contents
|
|
Introduction |
|
Project
Area Description |
|
Purpose
and Content of the Study |
|
Methodology |
|
Data
Collection |
|
Mail
Surveys and Interviews |
|
Traffic
Counts, Spot Counts, and Tailrace Counts |
|
Flyovers |
|
Existing
Recreation Areas and Facilities |
|
Data
Analysis |
|
Recreation
Use Assessment |
|
Boat
Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Recreation
Demand Assessment |
|
Limitations |
|
Consultation
|
|
Summary
of Recreation Resources |
|
Summary
of Regional Recreation Resources |
|
Catawba-Wateree
Key Characteristics |
|
Catawba-Wateree
Project Area Recreation Areas |
|
Catawba-Wateree
Project Area Recreation Use Assessment |
|
General
Recreation User Characteristics |
|
Recreation
Use |
|
Boating
Use |
|
Project
Area Recreation Resources |
|
Lake
James |
|
Lake
James Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
James Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
James Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
James Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lake
Rhodhiss |
|
Lake
Rhodhiss Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
Rhodhiss Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
Rhodhiss Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
Rhodhiss Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lake
Hickory |
|
Lake
Hickory Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
Hickory Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
Hickory Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
Hickory Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lookout
Shoals Lake |
|
Lookout
Shoals Lake Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lookout
Shoals Lake Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lookout
Shoals Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lookout
Shoals Lake Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lake
Norman |
|
Lake
Norman Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
Norman Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
Norman Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
Norman Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Mountain
Island Lake |
|
Mountain
Island Lake Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Mountain
Island Lake Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Mountain
Island Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Mountain
Island Lake Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lake
Wylie |
|
Lake
Wylie Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
Wylie Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
Wylie Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
Wylie Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Fishing
Creek Lake |
|
Fishing
Creek Lake Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Fishing
Creek Lake Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Fishing
Creek Lake Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Fishing
Creek Lake Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Great
Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes |
|
Great Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Existing Recreation Areas |
Great
Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Recreation Use
Assessment |
Great
Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Boat Carrying
Capacity Assessment |
|
Great
Falls and Rocky Creek Lakes Survey Respondent Commentsss |
|
Lake
Wateree |
|
Lake
Wateree Existing Recreation Areas |
|
Lake
Wateree Recreation Use Assessment |
|
Lake
Wateree Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment |
|
Lake
Wateree Survey Respondent Comments |
|
Lake Norman, the largest reservoir in the Catawba-Wateree
system, is located northwest of Charlotte in Mecklenburg, Iredell, Catawba
and Lincoln counties, North Carolina. Lake Norman has a surface area of
about 32,475 acres and 569.5 shoreline miles at full pond elevation of
760 feet msl. Table 4.5-1 summarizes the shoreline classification for
Lake Norman, based on the SMP maps.
| Table 4.5-1. |
Shoreline Classification for Lake Norman
|
|
Shoreline Classification
|
Shoreline Miles
|
Percent of Total
|
|
Commercial /Non-Residential
|
6.7
|
1.0%
|
|
Commercial /Residential
|
25.5
|
4.0%
|
|
Residential
|
299.6
|
53.0%
|
|
Business Industrial
|
1.4
|
0.0%
|
|
Public Recreation
|
2.3
|
0.4%
|
|
Public Infrastructure
|
19.5
|
3.0%
|
|
Project Operations
|
3.5
|
1.0%
|
|
Future Commercial/Non-Residential
|
18.0
|
3.0%
|
|
Future Commercial/Residential
|
40.5
|
7.0%
|
|
Future Residential
|
36.0
|
6.0%
|
|
Future Public Recreation
|
28.6
|
5.0%
|
|
Impact Minimization Zones
|
12.8
|
2.0%
|
|
Environmental Area
|
67.5
|
12.0%
|
|
Natural Area
|
7.1
|
1.0%
|
Total
|
569.6
|
100.0%
|
| 4.5.1 |
Lake Norman Existing
Recreation Areas |
There are 10 developed and 3 undeveloped Duke Power owned
public recreation access locations (two are leased to county recreation
agencies) on Lake Norman, one state park, (Lake Norman State Park, formerly
Duke Power State Park), two county parks, Jetton Road and Blythe Landing
County Parks, two county leased parks (Ramsey Creek and Stumpy Creek)
and one city park, Davidson Lake Park. Figure 4.5-1 shows the public recreation
access locations. In addition, there are 15 commercial non-residential,
and 4 commercial residential marinas that provide additional public access
on Lake Norman. The following sections describe the Duke-owned public
access areas, summarize the facilities at the state and county parks,
and provide estimates of the number and type of commercial recreational
access facilities at Lake Norman.
Existing Duke-Owned Public Access Areas
The developed Duke-owned public access areas provide about
119 acres of land and about 14,669 feet of shoreline frontage of public
access at Lake Norman. Combined, the developed access areas have 18 public
boat ramps, 7 loading piers, 1 fishing piers and about 553 vehicle/trailer
and 62 car parking spaces. Table 4.5-2 summarizes the facilities at the
public access areas. The undeveloped access areas provide about 152 acres
and 8,350 feet of shoreline frontage for future public recreational development.
|
Click Here
to View Full
Figure 4.5-1
Lake Norman Public Recreation Access Areas
|
 |
In the 1994 SMP Duke Power proposed to improve the Stumpy
Creek access area (replace the 1 ramp with 2 new boat ramps, install a
loading pier, expand, light and pave the parking lot), Pinnacle access
area (replace the 3 ramps with 5 new boat ramps, replace the pier with
2 new loading piers and light the parking lot), McCrary Creek access area
(replace the 2 ramps with 4 new boat ramps and light and pave the parking
lot), Hager Creek access area (replace the ramp with 3 new boat ramps,
install a loading pier and pave and light the parking lot), Long Island
access area (relocate the site and install two boat ramps, a loading pier
and pave the site), Little Creek access area (replace the 2 ramps with
2 new boat ramps, install a loading pier and expand, light and pave the
parking lot), Beattys Ford access area (replace the 3 ramps with 4 new
boat ramps, install 2 loading piers and expand, light and pave the parking
lot) and McGuire Fishing area (pave 5 handicapped parking spaces).
In addition, Duke Power said it would add 20 acres to
the McCrary Creek site (16 acres added), add 10 acres to the Hager Creek
site (8 acres added), relocate Long Island to 12 acres (relocated to 29
acres), add 5 acres to the Little Creek site (4 acres added), add 4 acres
to the Beattys Ford site (7 acres added) and identify a new undeveloped
87 acre site (this is a new undeveloped 128 acre site). All of the recreation
commitments from the 1994 SMP will be completed by the end of 2001. Duke
Power also added two additional undeveloped sites with one at Buffalo
Shoals (11 acres) and one at Slanting Bridge (13 acres).
| Table 4.5-2. |
Lake Norman Duke-Owned Public Access Areas
|
|
Access Area Name
|
Acreage
|
Shoreline Frontage (ft)
|
Boat
Ramps
|
Loading
Piers
|
Fishing
Piers
|
Car
Parking
(Spaces)
|
V/T*
Parking
(Spaces)
|
|
Long Island
|
28.8
|
2,015
|
2
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
50
|
|
Pinnacle
|
9.4
|
1,035
|
5
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
155
|
|
McCrary Creek
|
21.2
|
1,867
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
50
|
|
Marshall Fish Area
|
-
|
1,100
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
0
|
38
|
|
Hager Creek
|
28.3
|
3,308
|
4
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
120
|
|
Little Creek
|
7.9
|
1,673
|
1
|
0
|
0
|
20
|
20
|
|
Beatties Ford
|
23.7
|
1,871
|
4
|
2
|
0
|
0
|
120
|
|
McGuire Fish Area
|
-
|
1,800
|
0
|
0
|
1
|
42
|
0
|
|
Buffalo Shoals **
|
10.8
|
1,456
|
NA
|
NA
|
NA
|
0
|
NA
|
|
Island Point**
|
128.3
|
6,245
|
NA
|
NA
|
NA
|
0
|
NA
|
|
Slanting Bridge**
|
12.6
|
649
|
NA
|
NA
|
NA
|
0
|
NA
|
Total
|
271.0
|
23,019
|
18
|
7
|
1
|
62
|
553
|
* Vehicle/Trailer parking area.
** Undeveloped site.
Back to Top
State and County Public Recreation Facilities
There are one state park and four county parks located along
the Lake Norman shoreline. Table 4.5-3 summarizes the site acreage, shoreline
footage and recreational facilities provided at the Duke Power State Park.
This facility is located in the northern portion of Lake Norman, and is
owned and operated by North Carolina Department of Environmental Health
and Natural Resources, Division of Parks and Recreation.
| Table 4.5-3. |
Summary of Duke Power State Park Public Recreation Facilities
|
|
Site Description/Facility
|
Number
|
|
Site Acreage
|
1,459
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
39,850
|
|
Concrete Boat Ramps
|
2
|
|
Loading Pier
|
1
|
|
Paved Parking Spaces for Trailers
|
50
|
|
Paved Parking Spaces for Cars
|
370
|
|
Swimming Beach and Bathhouse
|
1 each
|
|
Concession Building
|
1
|
|
Primitive Group Campsites
|
1
|
|
Campsites without Hookups
|
33
|
|
Restroom/Shower
|
1
|
|
Picnic Tables
|
67
|
|
Ranger Residences
|
2
|
|
Maintenance Facility
|
1
|
|
Miles of Trail
|
7.5
|
Four county parks, Jetton Park, Blythe Landing, Ramsey
Creek Park, and Stumpy Creek Access Area are located along the southern
and eastern shoreline of Lake Norman. Jetton Park and Blythe Landing are
owned and operated by Mecklenburg County, while Ramsey Creek Park and
Stumpy Creek are operated by Mecklenburg County and Iredell County, respectively,
on lands under lease from Duke Power. Table 4.5-4 summarizes the key characteristics
of these facilities.
| Table 4.5-4. |
Summary of County Public Recreation Facilities
|
|
Jetton
Park
|
Blythe
Landing
|
Ramsey
Creek Park
|
Stumpy
Creek
|
|
105 acres
|
11 picnic tables
|
46 acres
|
4 soccer fields
|
|
12,877 shoreline footage
|
6 boat ramps
|
3,828 shoreline frontage
|
120 parking spaces
|
|
1 beach area
|
3 picnic shelters
|
4 concrete boat ramps
|
To be completed in 2001
|
|
1 concession area
|
.5 miles of trail
|
1 floating loading pier with 8 slips
|
2 concrete boat ramps
|
|
3 double picnic decks with grills
|
157 boat parking spaces
|
115 paved parking spaces for trailers
|
1 floating loading pier
|
|
9 picnic decks with grills
|
101 car parking spaces
|
49 paved parking spaces for cars
|
51 paved parking spaces
|
|
1 playground
|
1 dockside café
|
4 paved parking spaces for buses
|
|
|
2 restrooms
|
1 playground
|
12 picnic tables
|
|
|
8 tennis courts
|
8 boat slips
|
3 picnic shelters with 13 tables
|
|
|
1.5 miles of biking trails
|
5 volleyball courts
|
15 grills
|
|
|
1 mile of hiking trails
|
2 restrooms
|
2 restrooms
|
|
|
1 office complex
|
1 loading pier
|
1 concessions/office complex
|
|
|
1 maintenance facility
|
|
1 playground area
|
|
| |
|
2 horseshoe pits
|
|
| |
|
1 volleyball court
|
|
| |
|
2 beach areas
|
|
| |
|
1 fishing pier
|
|
| |
|
5 miles of trails
|
|
Existing Commercial and Private Recreation Access
In addition to the Duke-owned public access areas and
the state and county parks, the public can gain access to Lake Norman
through commercial non-residential and commercial residential marinas.
Private access to Lake Norman is through private marinas and private piers
along the Lake Norman shoreline. Table 4.5-5 summarizes the number and
type of public and private commercial non-residential and commercial residential
marina facilities. Table 4.5-6 summarizes the estimated number of private
piers.
| Table 4.5-5. |
Summary of Lake Norman Commercial Recreational
Access Facilities
|
|
Type of Facility
|
Commercial
Non-Residential
|
Commercial
Residential
|
|
No. Public Marinas
|
15
|
4
|
|
No. Private Marinas
|
7
|
65
|
|
No. Wet Slips
|
1,903
|
3,398
|
|
No. Dry Slips
|
1,570
|
1,035
|
| Table 4.5-6 |
Summary of Lake Norman Private Recreational Access Facilities
|
|
Type of Facility
|
No. Private Facilities
|
|
Piers
|
8,100
|
Site-Specific Descriptions of Existing Duke-owned Public Access Areas
at Lake Norman
The following section provides a description of each Duke-owned
public access area at Lake Norman, including a photograph, site characterisitics,
site recreation facilities, and key recreation activities.
Long Island Access Area

| Figure 4.5-2. |
Long Island Access Area
|
The Long Island access area is located in the upper portion
of Lake Norman along the western shoreline near Long Island, North Carolina.
Table 4.5-7 summarizes key site characteristics for the Long Island access
area.
| Table 4.5-7. |
Summary of Long Island Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Long Island
|
|
Location
|
Road 1904, Catawba County, NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
28.8 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
2 boat ramps, 1 loading pier, lighting
|
|
Parking
|
50 paved vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
Loading pier
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
Main channel of upper lake
|
|
Topography
|
Moderate slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
2,015 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Pinnacle Access Area

| Figure 4.5-4. |
Pinnacle Access Area
|
The Pinnacle access area is located in the middle portion
of Lake Norman's eastern shoreline, just off Route 150 in Iredell County,
North Carolina. Table 4.5-8 summarizes key site characteristics for the
Pinnacle access area.
| Table 4.5-8. |
Summary of Pinnacle Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Pinnacle
|
|
Location
|
Highway 150, Iredell County, NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
9.4 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
5 boat ramps, 2 loading piers
|
|
Parking
|
155 paved vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
Loading piers
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, boat fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
Main channel of the lake
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Planted hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,035 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
McCrary Creek Access Area

| Figure 4.5-5. |
McCrary Creek Access Area
|
The McCrary Creek access area is located off Route 150
in the middle portion of Lake Norman along the eastern shoreline just
southeast of the Pinnacle access area. Table 4.5-9 summarizes key site
characteristics for the McCrary Creek access area. Work will begin on
the removal of the old ramps and the installation of 4 new ramps, 2 loading
piers and an expansion of the parking lot at the end of 2000 and continue
into 2001.
| Table 4.5-9. |
Summary of McCrary Creek Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
McCrary Creek
|
|
Location
|
Highway 150, Iredell County, NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
21.2 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
2 boat ramps
|
|
Parking
|
50 paved vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
None (piers in the future)
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, boat and bank fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
None
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,867 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Marshall Fishing Area

| Figure 4.5-6. |
Marshall Fishing Area
|
The Marshall Fishing Area is located in the middle portion
of Lake Norman along the western shoreline, on Highway 150, near Terrell,
North Carolina. Table 4.5-10 summarizes key site characteristics for the
Marshall Fishing Area.
| Table 4.5-10. |
Summary of Marshall Fishing Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Marshall Fishing Area
|
|
Location
|
Highway 150, Catawba County, NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
Undefined since this site is on
Plant Marshall property
|
|
Site Facilities
|
Lighting, porta jons
|
|
Parking
|
38 gravel vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
None
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Bank fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
None
|
|
Topography
|
Steep slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,100 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Hager Creek Access Area

| Figure 4.5-7. |
Hager Creek Access Area
|
The Hager Creek access area is located in the middle portion
of Lake Norman along the eastern shoreline near Mayhew, North Carolina.
Table 4.5-11 summarizes key site characteristics for the Hager Creek access
area.
| Table 4.5-11. |
Summary of Hager Creek Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Hager Creek
|
|
Location
|
Road 1115, Iredell County, NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
28.3 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
4 boat ramps, 2 loading piers,
lighting
|
|
Parking
|
115 paved vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
Loading piers
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, boat and bank fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
Main channel of the lake
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
3,308 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Little Creek Access Area

| Figure 4.5-8. |
Little Creek Access Area
|
The Little Creek access area is located in the middle
portion of Lake Norman along the western shoreline near Denver, North
Carolina. Table 4.5-12 summarizes key site characteristics for the Little
Creek access area.
| Table 4.5-12. |
Summary of Little Creek Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Little Creek
|
|
Location
|
Burton Lane Road, Lincoln County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
7.9 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
1 boat ramp, lighting
|
|
Parking
|
20 paved vehicle/trailer and 20
paved car parking spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
None
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, boat and bank fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
Large open water area
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Open grass areas, partially wooded
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,673
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Beatties Ford Access Area

| Figure 4.5-9. |
Beatties Ford Access Area
|
The Beatties Ford access area is located in the lower
portion of Lake Norman along the western shoreline near Triangle, North
Carolina. Table 4.5-13 summarizes key site characteristics for the Beatties
Ford access area.
| Table 4.5-13. |
Summary of Beatties Ford Access Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Beatties Ford
|
|
Location
|
Unity Church Road, Lincoln County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
23.7 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
4 boat ramps, 2 loading piers,
lighting
|
|
Parking
|
120 paved vehicle/trailer parking
spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
Loading piers
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Boating, boat fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
From boat launch area looking at
main lake
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Predominantly open grass area,
some wooded conifer areas
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,871 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
McGuire Fishing Area

| Figure 4.5-11. |
McGuire Fishing Area
|
The McGuire Fishing Area is located in the lower portion
of Lake Norman along the eastern shoreline, off Route 73, near Hicks Crossroads,
North Carolina. Table 4.5-14 summarizes key site characteristics for the
McGuire Fishing Area.
| Table 4.5-14. |
Summary of McGuire Fishing Area Site Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
McGuire Fishing Area
|
|
Location
|
Highway 73, Mecklenburg County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
Undefined since this is part of
the McGuire site
|
|
Site Facilities
|
1 fishing pier, bankfishing, porta
jons, lighting
|
|
Parking
|
30 gravel and 12 paved car parking spaces
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
Fishing pier
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
Bank and pier fishing
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
None
|
|
Key Views
|
McGuire Nuclear Station, Cowans
Ford dam and the main lake
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Open grass areas
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,800 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power/NCWRC
|
Buffalo Shoals Undeveloped Access Area
The Buffalo Shoals undeveloped access area is located
in the upper portion of Lake Norman along the eastern shoreline off Buffalo
Shoals Road near Eufola, North Carolina. Table 4.5-15 summarizes key site
characteristics for the Buffalo Shoals undeveloped access area.
| Table 4.5-15. |
Summary of Buffalo Shoals Undeveloped Access Area Site
Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Buffalo Shoals
|
|
Location
|
Buffalo Shoals Road, Iredell County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
10.8 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
Undeveloped Area
|
|
Parking
|
NA
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
NA
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
NA
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
NA
|
|
Key Views
|
Main channel of upper lake
|
|
Topography
|
Steep slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
1,456 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power
|
Island Point Undeveloped Access Area
The Island Point undeveloped access area is located in
the upper portion of Lake Norman along the western shoreline off Island
Point Road near Sherrills Ford, North Carolina. Table 4.5-16 summarizes
key site characteristics for the Island Point undeveloped access area.
| Table 4.5-16. |
Summary of Island Point Undeveloped Access Area Site
Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Island Point
|
|
Location
|
Island Point Road, Catawba County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
128.3 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
Undeveloped site
|
|
Parking
|
NA
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
NA
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
NA
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
NA
|
|
Key Views
|
Along the shoreline area
|
|
Topography
|
Flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Primarily forested with conifers
and few hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
6,245 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power
|
Slanting Bridge Undeveloped Access Area
The Slanting Bridge undeveloped access area is located
in the middle portion of Lake Norman along the western shoreline off Slanting
Bridge Road near Denver, North Carolina. Table 4.5-17 summarizes key site
characteristics for the Slanting Bridge undeveloped access area.
| Table 4.5-17. |
Summary of Slanting Bridge Undeveloped Access Area Site
Characteristics
|
|
Site Name
|
Slanting Bridge
|
|
Location
|
Slanting Bridge Road, Catawba County,
NC
|
|
Site Acreage
|
12.6 acres
|
|
Site Facilities
|
Undeveloped site
|
|
Parking
|
NA
|
|
ADA Facilities
|
NA
|
|
Key Recreation Activities
|
NA
|
|
Recreation Access Fees
|
NA
|
|
Key Views
|
Along shoreline of a cove
|
|
Topography
|
Moderate to flat slope
|
|
Vegetation
|
Mixed conifers and hardwoods
|
|
Shoreline Footage
|
649 feet
|
|
Ownership/Lease
|
Duke Power
|
| 4.5.2 |
Lake Norman Recreation
Use Assessment |
Recreation Use
Visitation at the public access areas on Lake Norman was
derived based on estimates of the traffic entering the Duke-owned public
access areas. Total estimated visitation during the 1999 study period
for Lake Norman at these sites was about 387,400 visits. Figure 4.5-12
shows the distribution of the visitation for each month at Lake Norman
for the Duke-owned public access areas during the 1999 study period. A
visit is considered a vehicle or vehicle/trailer entering the site for
any part of a day.

| Figure 4.5-12. |
Lake Norman Estimate of Recreation Visitation at the
Duke-Owned Access Areas
|
Table 4.5-18 provides a summary of the estimated recreation
visitation based on the traffic counter data for the sampled sites during
the 1999 study period. Of the Lake Norman Duke-owned access areas, Ramsey
Creek, Pinnacle, and Beatties Ford have the greatest amount of use at
about 19 percent, 17 percent, and 16 percent, respectively, of the total
estimated use at the Lake Norman Duke-owned access areas.
Spot counts were conducted at six sites for Lake Norman,
Beatties Ford, Hager Creek, Little Creek, Marshall Fishing Area, McCrary
Creek, and Pinnacle Access areas. Table 4.5-19 lists the number of sample
days per month for the spot count data collection.
Click Here
to View Full
| Table 4.5-18 |
Lake Norman Estimated Recreation Visitation at Duke-Owned
Access Areas
|
| Table 4.5-19 |
Spot Count Sites by Month
|
|
Site
|
Month
|
| |
Jan
|
Feb
|
Mar
|
Apr
|
May
|
Jun
|
Jul
|
Aug
|
Sep
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
Dec
|
|
Beatties Ford
|
2
|
2
|
3
|
3
|
2
|
5
|
5
|
2
|
5
|
1
|
3
|
1
|
|
Hager Creek
|
2
|
3
|
2
|
4
|
3
|
4
|
7
|
5
|
4
|
0
|
0
|
2
|
|
Little Creek
|
1
|
3
|
2
|
2
|
2
|
5
|
5
|
2
|
4
|
1
|
3
|
2
|
|
Marshall Fishing Area
|
2
|
4
|
3
|
3
|
2
|
5
|
8
|
5
|
6
|
2
|
3
|
2
|
|
McCrary Creek
|
1
|
4
|
4
|
6
|
3
|
5
|
7
|
5
|
6
|
2
|
3
|
2
|
|
Pinnacle
|
2
|
3
|
4
|
6
|
2
|
5
|
10
|
5
|
6
|
2
|
3
|
2
|
Based on survey data input, the estimated ratio for annual
visits to the project area for Survey B respondents (respondents that
use both public and private access areas) as compared to Survey C respondents
(respondents at the public access areas) was about a ratio of 1.3 to 1.
The estimated overall recreational visitation for Lake Norman for the
1999 study period totaled 492,146 visits.
The total number of surveys received for each survey is
listed in Table 4.5-20. Survey D was conducted of marina operators, therefore
numbers of surveys sent and received were low. Figure 4.5-13 shows the
distribution of recreation activity type for Survey A, Survey B, and Survey
C categories. Figure 4.5-14 shows the distribution of recreation activity
type combining data from Surveys A, B, and C; spot counts; and tailrace
counts. Based on the combined data sources, the primary recreation activities
for Lake Norman during the 1999 study period were motor boating, boat
fishing, bank/pier fishing, and swimming. For Lake Norman, respondents
indicated that for Survey A, about 17 percent recreated on the islands,
for Survey B about 22 percent, and for Survey C about 9 percent. The combined
responses to Surveys A, B, and C indicated that about 16 percent overall
recreated on the islands of Lake Norman. The respondents indicated that
the majority of the island activity was swimming, picnicking, fishing
and sunbathing.
| Table 4.5-20. |
Total Responses by Survey
|
|
Survey
|
A
|
B
|
C
|
E
|
Total
|
|
N=
|
162
|
197
|
171
|
24
|
554
|

| Figure 4.5-13. |
Lake Norman Distribution of Recreation Activity Type
from
Survey Data Sources
|
For Lake Norman, the average party size (average number
of recreators in each party) for respondents to Survey A was 4.5, for
Survey B was 3.8, and for Survey C was 2.6. The average party size for
all three groups (A, B, and C) was 3.6. The average number of visits per
year for Survey B was 95.7, for Survey C was 24.4, and for combined Survey
B and C respondents was 62.2. The average length of stay for Survey B
respondents was 10.1 hours, for Survey C respondents was 4.8 hours, and
for combined Survey B and C respondents was 7.6 hours. About 39 percent
of the respondents to Surveys A and B indicated that Lake Norman was the
lake they primarily recreated within the Catawba-Wateree system. For Survey
A about 47 percent and for Survey B about 33 percent of the respondents
indicated they had land abutting Lake Norman; therefore, influencing the
high ranking of Lake Norman as the lake where Survey A and B respondents
primarily recreated.

| Figure 4.5-14. |
Lake Norman Distribution of Recreation Activity Type
from all Data Sources
|
Table 4.5-21 summarizes the perceived crowding ratings
for Lake Norman for each survey type, including responses to Surveys D
and E and a combined rating for Survey A, B, and C responses. Recreators
on Lake Norman (Surveys A, B, and C) indicated that weekday crowding was
about mid range (on a scale of 1 to 5), and weekend crowding was high
for respondents to Surveys A and B, and mid-range for respondents at the
public access areas (Survey C). The marina owners indicated low crowding
levels during the week and high levels on the weekends, while the lake
rescue and management groups indicated higher crowding ratings for weekdays
and weekends than all the other survey respondent categories.
| Table 4.5-21. |
Lake Norman Perceived Crowding Ratings
|
| |
Weekday
|
Weekend
|
|
Survey
|
Avg.
of Rating
|
N=
|
Avg.
of Rating
|
N=
|
|
A
|
2.3
|
147
|
4.6
|
147
|
|
B
|
2.4
|
190
|
4.5
|
190
|
|
C
|
2.2
|
79
|
2.3
|
39
|
|
Combined
A,B,C*
|
2.3
|
416
|
4.3
|
376
|
|
D
|
1.3
|
9
|
4.1
|
9
|
|
E
|
3.3
|
33
|
4.8
|
32
|
* Weighted Average.
Boating Use
Figure 4.5-15 shows the distribution of boating activity
type for Lake Norman based on Surveys A, B, and C individually, comparing
the percentage of each boating activity type to the overall boating use.
The average boating party size was 4.3 for Survey A; 3.6 for Survey B;
2.5 for Survey C; and 3.4 for the combined responses for Surveys A, B,
and C. The average number of hours boating was 3.5 hours for Survey A;
4.3 hours for Survey B; 5.1 hours for Survey C; and 4.4 hours for the
combined responses for Surveys A, B, and C.

| Figure 4.5-15. |
Lake Norman Distribution of Boating Use
|
Of the individuals surveyed who primarily recreated on
Lake Norman, about 92 percent of the Survey A respondents owned boats.
For Survey B respondents, about 84 percent owned boats, about 74 percent
of the Survey C respondents owned boats, and for the combined responses
for Surveys A, B, and C, about 83 percent of the respondents owned boats.
Table 4.5-22 summarizes the distribution of boat ownership
by type of boat for Lake Norman. Motor boats comprised over 50 percent
of the boat ownership, compared to the other boat categories, followed
by jet skis at about 20 percent. The ownership of motor boat types was
about 33 percent for small motor boats (ranging 20 feet or less in size)
and about 22 percent for medium motor boats (ranging between 21 to 40
feet in size).
| Table 4.5-22. |
Lake Norman Boat Ownership Type
|
|
Survey
|
A
|
B
|
C
|
Combined
|
|
N=
|
162
|
197
|
171
|
530
|
|
Motor Boat SM
|
33%
|
34%
|
32%
|
33%
|
|
Motor Boat MD
|
19%
|
24%
|
23%
|
22%
|
|
Motor Boat LG
|
0%
|
0%
|
0%
|
0%
|
|
Canoe
|
8%
|
5%
|
13%
|
8%
|
|
Kayak
|
1%
|
2%
|
2%
|
2%
|
|
Sailboat
|
8%
|
8%
|
7%
|
8%
|
|
Jet Ski
|
22%
|
22%
|
19%
|
21%
|
|
Other Boats
|
11%
|
4%
|
3%
|
6%
|
|
Total
|
100%
|
100%
|
100%
|
100%
|
Figure 4.5-16 shows the period of the day the respondents
indicated they primarily boated, for Surveys A, B, C. Lake Norman was
the primary boat launching lake of the lakes within the Catawba-Wateree
system for all survey respondents. For Survey A about 38 percent indicated
they primarily launched boats at Lake Norman. For Survey B about 36 percent,
for Survey C about 30 percent, and for the combined responses for Surveys
A, B, and C about 34 percent of the respondents launched boats at Lake
Norman, compared to other lakes within the Catawba-Wateree system.

| Figure 4.5-16. |
Lake Norman Boating Period Distribution
|
| 4.5.3 |
Lake Norman Boat Carrying
Capacity Assessment |
The overall boat carrying capacity is assessed based on
the peak boating use estimates obtained during the aerial flyovers in
the 1999 study period. The available boating acreage was adjusted from
the base boats per acreage estimate (see Table 4.5-23) by the following
factors (Warren and Rea, 1989):
| Factor |
Adjustment
|
| 1. |
Location of the lake in relation to population
served |
0
|
| 2. |
Multiple use of water area |
-
|
|
3.
|
Shoreline configuration |
-
|
| 4. |
Amount of open water |
+
|
| 5. |
Amount of facility and shoreline development |
+
|
| 6. |
Crowding rating |
-
|
| |
Total
|
-1
|
| Table 4.5-23. |
Boat Type Acreage Adjustment
(Source: Modified from Warren and Rea, 1989)
|
|
Boat Activity Type
|
Low
|
-4
|
-3
|
-2
|
-1
|
Base
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
4
|
High
|
|
Fishing
|
10.0
|
9.0
|
8.0
|
6.0
|
5.0
|
4.3
|
4.0
|
3.3
|
3.0
|
2.3
|
2.0
|
|
Canoe/Kayak
|
2.5
|
2.3
|
2.0
|
1.8
|
1.5
|
1.3
|
1.1
|
1.0
|
0.8
|
0.7
|
0.5
|
|
Motor
Boating
|
18.0
|
17.0
|
15.0
|
13.0
|
11.0
|
9.0
|
8.0
|
7.0
|
6.0
|
5.0
|
3.0
|
|
Sailing
|
10.0
|
9.0
|
8.0
|
6.0
|
5.0
|
4.3
|
4.0
|
3.3
|
3.0
|
2.3
|
2.0
|
|
Jet
Skiing
|
10.0
|
9.0
|
8.0
|
6.0
|
5.0
|
4.3
|
4.0
|
3.3
|
3.0
|
2.3
|
2.0
|
|
Water
Skiing
|
20.0
|
18.0
|
17.0
|
15.0
|
14.0
|
12.0
|
11.0
|
10.0
|
9.0
|
8.0
|
7.0
|
Table 4.5-24 summarizes the allowable overall boat capacity
based on the usable water surface acreage and the boating activity mix
identified from the surveys. For the estimate of the boating surface acreage,
the available boating surface acreage was assessed based on the 120-foot
buffer for motor boating, sailing and jet skiing activity. For the available
boating surface area for water skiing, an additional 150-foot buffer was
excluded around the perimeter of the lake in order to account for the
"no wake" zone, where water skiing activity could not occur.
Table 4.5-25 shows the percent capacity of the boat use for Lake Norman
on the peak day during the 1999 study period. Lake Norman during the weekday
was estimated at 14 percent capacity, during the weekend at 21 percent
capacity, and during the peak holiday period at 25 percent capacity for
overall boating use.
| Table 4.5-24. |
Lake Norman Boat Carrying Capacity Assessment
|
|
Boat Activity
|
Usable Acreage
|
Use Factor
|
Max. No. Boats
|
% Usage
|
Activity Mix
|
Persons/ Boat
|
Total Users
|
|
Fishing
|
31,793
|
5.0
|
6,358
|
23%
|
1,462
|
3.14
|
4,590
|
|
Canoe/Kayak
|
31,793
|
1.5
|
21,195
|
6%
|
1,272
|
3.26
|
4,147
|
|
Motor
Boating
|
24,907
|
11.0
|
2,264
|
33%
|
747
|
3.90
|
2,913
|
|
Sailing
|
24,907
|
5.0
|
4,981
|
6%
|
299
|
3.36
|
1,005
|
|
Jet
Skiing
|
24,907
|
5.0
|
4,981
|
15%
|
747
|
3.85
|
2,877
|
|
Water
Skiing
|
18,730
|
14.0
|
1,338
|
17%
|
227
|
4.4
|
999
|
Total
|
|
|
|
100%
|
4,754
|
|
16,531
|
| Table 4.5-25. |
Lake Norman Estimated 1999 Study Period Boat Capacity
|
|
Peak Use
|
Weekday
|
% Capacity
|
Weekend
|
% Capacity
|
Holiday
|
% Capacity
|
|
No.
Boats
|
651
|
14%
|
981
|
21%
|
1,199
|
25%
|
The overall boat carrying capacity assessment provides
an assessment of the total surface area available for boating use. To
assess the areas of the lakes with higher density of boating use, the
general location of boating activity was recorded during the aerial flyovers
for each day of aerial coverage. Figure 4.5-17 shows the location of boats
during the peak use day, in this case July 4, 1999, for Lake Norman. Figure
4.5-18 shows the boating density on Lake Norman for the peak use day and
areas with the greatest clustering of boating activity. Figure 4.5-19
shows the boat density map based on the composite of the five highest
boating use days. This figure shows the areas with the most boating use
during the peak use days during the study period and provides an assessment
of areas with high density boating during the study period.
|
Click Here
to View Full
Figure 4.5-17
Lake Norman Peak Use Day Boat Counts
|
 |
|
Click Here
to View Full
Figure 4.5-18
Lake Norman Peak Use Day Boat Density Map
|
 |
|
Click Here
to View Full
Figure 4.5-19
Lake Norman Composite Peak Use Boat Density Map
|
 |
Lake Norman Estimated Future Recreational Demand
Table 4.5-26 provides the population projections for the
counties within 50-60 miles of Lake Norman reservoir. Population projections
were conducted for these impact zones using population data from the Office
of State Planning for the counties in North Carolina and from the Office
of Research and Statistics for the counties in South Carolina for 1970
through 1990 and population projections from the U.S. Census Bureau for
2000, 2010, and 2020. An average percentage increase for each ten year
period was calculated. The impact zone populations were then projected
to the year 2050 using the average percentage growth for the entire time
period.
| Table 4.5-26. |
Lake Norman Estimated Population Projections for the
Impact Zone
|
|
County
|
1999
|
2000
|
2010
|
2020
|
2030
|
2040
|
2050
|
|
Cabarrus
|
111,064
|
123,404
|
144,126
|
165,168
|
193,710
|
227,183
|
266,441
|
|
Catawba
|
120,581
|
133,979
|
146,217
|
157,650
|
176,071
|
196,645
|
219,623
|
|
Cleveland
|
83,358
|
92,620
|
96,803
|
100,034
|
106,779
|
113,979
|
121,664
|
|
Davie
|
29,402
|
32,669
|
36,116
|
39,072
|
45,301
|
52,524
|
60,898
|
|
Gaston
|
164,090
|
182,322
|
186,268
|
189,339
|
198,875
|
208,891
|
219,412
|
|
Iredell
|
103,671
|
115,190
|
133,065
|
150,827
|
174,879
|
202,766
|
235,100
|
|
Lincoln
|
54,839
|
60,932
|
70,132
|
79,229
|
94,689
|
113,166
|
135,248
|
|
Mecklenburg
|
583,475
|
648,305
|
776,521
|
909,800
|
1,099,403
|
1,328,519
|
1,605,383
|
|
Rowan
|
114,836
|
127,595
|
141,998
|
156,886
|
175,339
|
195,962
|
219,012
|
|
Total
|
1,365,316
|
1,517,016
|
1,731,246
|
1,948,005
|
2,265,046
|
2,639,635
|
3,082,781
|
Table 4.5-27 provides the estimated recreational use for
the impact zone through the year 2050. Current use estimates are based
on spot counts and responses to surveys. The recreational use projections
were estimated by computing the projected population increase for the
impact zone and incorporating indexed values for future recreational use
for the various activities. The index values for each activity were obtained
from "Outdoor Recreation in American Life: A National Assessment
of Demand and Supply Trends" (Cordell, 1999). The indices are based
on models that incorporate a number of variables, including age structure
of the population, income, race, sex, and population density, as well
as other explanatory variables. Full model parameters and estimates are
available from the author.
Table 4.5-28 shows the estimated absorption percentage
for the four major recreation activities that require specific lands and
facilities. Picnicking, swimming, camping, and boating are activities
that require specific developed facilities. The other activities listed
are dispersed activities that can take place at a variety of undeveloped
areas. The estimated 1999 use levels are from Table 4.5-27. The estimated
demand is based on the impact zone population (population of all counties
within 50-60 miles of the lake). The impact zone population is multiplied
by the participation rate for the activity, which was obtained from "Emerging
Markets for Outdoor Recreation in the United States: Based on the National
Survey on Recreation and the Environment" by H. Ken Cordell, et al.
Participation rates are for the South and are similar to 1995 North Carolina
SCORP data. Specific participation rates are as follows: swimming, 37.3%;
picnicking, 44.8%; camping, 22.4%; boating, 45.0%. The product of the
impact zone population and participation rates are then multiplied by
the estimated of number of days of participation for each activity, which
were obtained from the 1995 North Carolina SCORP. The 1999 estimated number
of participants for each activity was then divided by the 1999 estimated
demand to obtain the estimated absorption percentage. Absorption percentage
is defined as the percent of total demand for the impact zone that is
met by the individual lake.
Table 4.5-29 provides the estimate of the recreational
facilities land acreage needed to meet the future recreational demand
through the year 2050. The weighted population is the estimated impact
zone population multiplied by the participation rate for each activity.
The facility standards and estimated acreage needs for the facility class
are based on State SCORPS and FERC Guidelines for Outdoor Recreational
Facilities. The facility need is the total facility need for the impact
zone based on the weighted population and the facility standards. The
total facility need is then multiplied by the absorption percentage to
determine the facility need for Lake Norman. The acreage needs are then
based on the Lake Norman facility need multiplied by per unit acreage
needs that are based on State SCORPS and FERC Guidelines for Outdoor Recreation
Facilities. For Lake Norman, it is estimated that 66 acres are required
to accommodate future recreational facilities demand through the year
2050. This includes 4 acres of beaches, 5 acres of picnic areas, 5 acres
of campsites, and 52 acres of boat ramps.
The estimated acreage needs for the reservoir are total
usable acreage needs. Usable land acreage at existing developed public
recreational facilities can be counted toward meeting these needs. Duke
Power sites, county and state parks, and other private and public agencies
will meet these needs. There are a number of state and county parks that
are located on lands leased from Duke Power. These areas are not included
in the discussion, as Duke Power owned access areas. Duke Power is expected
to meet a portion of the future recreational land needs. The entire estimated
need will be met by a combination of opportunities from all sources.
At Lake Norman the most frequently identified recreational
facility needs mentioned restrooms and swimming areas. Under the AAII
two counties have submitted plans for the development of additional recreational
facilities at the access areas including restrooms. Duke Power State Park
is in the process of relocating their swimming to reduce the problems
at the old site. In addition, Duke Power will be offering the access areas
to non-agency operators for the development of public recreation facilities.
| Table 4.5-27. |
Lake Norman Estimated Future Recreational Use
|
|
Activity
|
Est. 1999 Rec Use
|
Rec Use 2010
|
Rec Use 2020
|
Rec Use 2030
|
Rec Use 2040
|
Rec Use 2050
|
|
Motor
Boating*
|
148,779
|
171,277
|
196,146
|
232,025
|
278,691
|
336,675
|
|
Boat
Fishing*
|
163,055
|
200,469
|
240,016
|
290,979
|
342,574
|
395,162
|
|
Bank/Pier
Fish
|
130,775
|
160,782
|
192,500
|
233,373
|
274,754
|
316,931
|
|
Lake
Swimming
|
128,433
|
154,597
|
183,047
|
223,010
|
274,696
|
341,232
|
|
Canoeing*
|
14,191
|
16,877
|
19,609
|
24,008
|
30,470
|
40,113
|
|
Jet
Skiing*
|
73,671
|
84,812
|
97,126
|
114,892
|
138,000
|
166,712
|
|
Kayaking*
|
3,393
|
3,907
|
4,473
|
5,290
|
6,401
|
7,898
|
|
Tailrace
Fishing
|
4,319
|
5,310
|
6,357
|
7,707
|
9,074
|
10,467
|
|
Sailing*
|
31,008
|
35,697
|
40,880
|
48,358
|
58,084
|
70,169
|
|
Water
Ski/Tubing*
|
58,049
|
66,827
|
76,531
|
90,530
|
108,737
|
131,361
|
|
Backpacking
|
1,234
|
1,677
|
2,228
|
2,991
|
3,909
|
5,049
|
|
Hunting
|
4,010
|
4,446
|
4,853
|
5,372
|
5,803
|
6,236
|
|
Tent/Vehicle
Camp
|
5,244
|
7,272
|
9,828
|
13,384
|
17,944
|
23,752
|
|
Windsurfing
|
4,748
|
5,466
|
6,259
|
7,404
|
8,894
|
10,744
|
|
Bicycling
|
10,797
|
13,622
|
17,016
|
21,755
|
26,275
|
31,467
|
|
Picnicking
|
42,919
|
53,793
|
66,404
|
84,144
|
106,792
|
135,557
|
|
Sightseeing
|
43,107
|
55,640
|
70,296
|
90,125
|
115,368
|
146,688
|
|
Hiking
|
15,666
|
20,806
|
26,851
|
34,964
|
44,445
|
55,479
|
|
Wildlife
Viewing
|
17,087
|
23,106
|
30,725
|
40,466
|
51,271
|
62,626
|
|
Using
Playgrounds
|
8,329
|
10,448
|
12,819
|
16,069
|
20,221
|
25,501
|
|
Sub-total*
|
492,146
|
579,866
|
674,781
|
806,082
|
962,957
|
1,148,090
|
|
Total
|
908,814
|
1,096,831
|
1,303,964
|
1,586,846
|
1,922,405
|
2,319,819
|
| Table 4.5-28. |
Lake Norman Estimated Absorption Percentages for Reservoir
|
|
Activity
|
Estimated
1999 Participants
|
Estimated
1999 Demand
|
Absorption
Percentage
|
|
Swimming
|
128,433
|
4,231,968
|
3.0%
|
|
Picnicking
|
42,919
|
2,630,144
|
1.6%
|
|
Camping
|
5,244
|
1,024,531
|
0.5%
|
|
Boating
|
492,146
|
3,255,407
|
15.1%
|
| Table 4.5-29. |
Lake Norman Estimated Recreational Facility Land Acreage
Needs
|
|
A
|
B
|
C
|
D
|
E
|
F
|
G
|
H
|
|
Activity
|
Year
|
Weighted Population
|
Facility Standard
|
Facility Need
|
Facility Class
|
Lake Norman Share
|
Acreage
|
|
Swimming
|
2010
|
645,755
|
1 per 50,000
|
12.92
|
beaches
|
0.39
|
2.13
|
| |
2020
|
726,606
|
1 per 50,000
|
14.53
|
beaches
|
0.44
|
2.40
|
| |
2030
|
844,862
|
1 per 50,000
|
16.90
|
beaches
|
0.51
|
2.79
|
| |
2040
|
974,554
|
1 per 50,000
|
19.49
|
beaches
|
0.59
|
3.25
|
| |
2050
|
1,124,155
|
1 per 50,000
|
22.48
|
beaches
|
0.69
|
3.79
|
|
Picnicking
|
2010
|
775,598
|
1 per 500
|
1,551.20
|
tables
|
24.82
|
2.48
|
| |
2020
|
872,706
|
1 per 500
|
1,745.41
|
tables
|
27.93
|
2.79
|
| |
2030
|
1,014,741
|
1 per 500
|
2,029.48
|
tables
|
32.47
|
3.25
|
| |
2040
|
1,170,510
|
1 per 500
|
2,341.02
|
tables
|
37.84
|
3.78
|
| |
2050
|
1,350,191
|
1 per 500
|
2,700.38
|
tables
|
44.19
|
4.42
|
|
Camping
|
2010
|
387,799
|
6 per 1,000
|
2,326.79
|
campsites
|
11.63
|
2.91
|
| |
2020
|
436,353
|
6 per 1,000
|
2,618.12
|
campsites
|
13.09
|
3.27
|
| |
2030
|
507,370
|
6 per 1,000
|
3,044.22
|
campsites
|
15.22
|
3.81
|
| |
2040
|
585,255
|
6 per 1,000
|
3,511.53
|
campsites
|
17.74
|
4.43
|
| |
2050
|
675,096
|
6 per 1,000
|
4,050.57
|
campsites
|
20.72
|
5.18
|
|
Boating
|
2010
|
779,061
|
1 per 4000
|
194.77
|
boat
ramps
|
29.41
|
29.41
|
| |
2020
|
876,602
|
1 per 4000
|
219.15
|
boat
ramps
|
33.09
|
33.09
|
| |
2030
|
1,019,271
|
1 per 4000
|
254.82
|
boat
ramps
|
38.48
|
38.48
|
| |
2040
|
1,175,736
|
1 per 4000
|
293.93
|
boat
ramps
|
44.84
|
44.84
|
| |
2050
|
1,356,219
|
1 per 4000
|
339.05
|
boat
ramps
|
52.37
|
52.37
|
| |
|
|
|
|
Total Acreage for 2050
|
65.76
|
| 4.5.4 |
Lake Norman Survey Respondent
Comments |
Recreators were asked in the surveys if the existing recreational
facilities within the Catawba-Wateree system met their recreational needs.
For Lake Norman, 86 percent of Survey A; 73 percent for Survey B; about
78 percent for Survey C; and 79 percent for combined Surveys A, B, and
C, of the respondents stated that the existing facilities met their needs.
The primary facilities that were indicated as needed at Lake Norman included
more boat ramps, swimming areas, picnic areas, and restroom facilities;
a few individuals stated they would like to see more camping areas around
the lake. In response to whether additional boating facilities were needed,
85 percent of the respondents for Survey A, 82 percent for Survey B; 92
percent for Survey C; and 86 percent for combined Surveys A, B, and C
felt that the existing boating facilities were adequate. The primary boating
facilities that were indicated as needed at Lake Norman included more
marinas, pump out stations, and gas pumps.
About 45 percent for Survey A (n=162); 44 percent for
Survey B (n=197); 10 percent for Survey C (n=171); and 33 percent for
the combined Surveys A, B, and C indicated they had a negative experience
while recreating. About 35 percent for Survey A (n=162); 38 percent for
Survey B (n=197); 15 percent for Survey C (n=171); and 30 percent for
the combined Surveys A, B, and C indicated they had felt jeopardized while
recreating. The primary reasons listed for the negative experiences and
incidences when recreators felt jeopardized were reckless or inconsiderate
boat or jet ski use by other recreators. Many comments were related to
dangerous and inexperienced operation of jet skis and dangerous operation
of boats that create large wakes or resulted in near collisions. Several
respondents commented that Lake Norman was too crowded and that there
was too much boat traffic. A few respondents stated that trash and litter
and poor water quality were a problem.
In terms of responses to additional comments, many respondents
to Surveys A, B, and C stated concerns associated with boating use on
Lake Norman. The primary concerns were related safety factors associated
with improper use of jet skis and boats, including effects of irresponsible
jet skiing and boating, boat wakes, and boat users not understanding and/or
adhering to boat laws and common sense boating safety measures. Many respondents
also indicated the need for more boating patrol and enforcement on Lake
Norman. A few respondents stated concerns about the water quality of Lake
Norman.
When asked if they could change one thing, respondents
to Surveys A, B, and C stated that they would like to see fewer or no
jet skiing on Lake Norman, and more boat regulation in terms of use and
size of boats allowed on the lake. Several of the respondents stated concerns
about the degree of development along the shorelines of Lake Norman and
the effects of overcrowding on the lake boating opportunities. Comments
from the Survey D respondents indicated that there should be more regulation
of jet skiers on Lake Norman. For Lake Norman, respondents to Survey E
stated that more boating pump out facilities, swimming and picnic areas,
fishing access, and boat ramps were needed.
|