Weatherspoon Cooling Lake Dam

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Weatherspoon Cooling Lake Dam in Lumberton, North Carolina, is a vital structure owned by a public utility and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program. The dam was completed in 1955 and serves as a barrier on the Lumber River, providing cooling water for industrial purposes. With a structural height of 14 feet and a hydraulic height of 9 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 828 acre-feet, helping to manage water resources in the area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Weatherspoon Cooling Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in Robeson County. The dam has a storage capacity of 994 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 51.1 acres, contributing to flood control and water supply reliability in the region. Regular inspections and enforcement by state agencies ensure the safety and integrity of the dam, making it a key asset for both the local community and the environment.

As a significant earth dam with a long history of service, Weatherspoon Cooling Lake Dam represents a blend of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Its presence on the Lumber River underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management and highlights the interconnectedness of climate, water, and infrastructure. With ongoing maintenance and oversight, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose and support the resilience of the surrounding ecosystem in the face of changing climate conditions.