Upchurch Milling Co. Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mott Lake Dam Scull Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upchurch Milling Co.
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Summary
Dam, located in Raeford, North Carolina, is a state-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1984. This earth dam stands at a structural height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 16.5 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes along Nicholson Creek-Tr. With a drainage area of 771 acres and a storage capacity of 344 acre-feet, the dam spans 900 feet in length and covers a surface area of 41 acres.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Upchurch Milling Co. Dam received a fair condition assessment in 2011. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks. While it is not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes periodic inspections, with the last one conducted in July 2011. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a potential level 3 risk, although specific risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols are not explicitly outlined.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the ecological significance of Upchurch Milling Co. Dam and its impact on the surrounding environment will find the dam's historical background and structural details informative. As a recreational dam nestled within the picturesque landscape of Hoke County, North Carolina, this earth dam not only provides leisure opportunities but also serves as a vital component of the local watershed system. Understanding the dam's hydraulic and storage capacities, as well as its risk assessment and condition evaluation, can shed light on its role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1984 |
Dam Length |
900 |
River Or Stream |
Nicholson Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Drainage Area |
771 |
Nid Storage |
344 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
372cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
82cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Upchurch Milling Co. Dam