Lake Trace Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Trace, located in Lee County, North Carolina, is a privately owned reservoir on the Little River that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a maximum storage capacity of 9,645 acre-feet and a surface area of 330 acres, the dam was completed in 1971 and stands at a structural height of 30 feet. The reservoir has a significant hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of August 2020, prompting biennial inspections to ensure public safety.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Lake Trace falls under state jurisdiction, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place to regulate its operation. The dam's hydraulic height reaches 18 feet, with a drainage area of 34,048 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 42,185 cubic feet per second. Despite its critical status, the lake provides a serene setting for outdoor activities and water recreation, attracting enthusiasts and nature lovers alike to its picturesque surroundings along the scenic Little River.
As a vital water resource in the region, Lake Trace offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to enjoy the beauty of its natural landscape. While facing regulatory challenges and safety concerns, the reservoir remains a popular destination for fishing, boating, and leisure activities, highlighting the delicate balance between conservation efforts and recreational enjoyment in the face of climate uncertainties. Explore the charm of Lake Trace and immerse yourself in the wonders of sustainable water management and climate resilience in this idyllic North Carolina setting.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
970 |
River Or Stream |
Little River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
330 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
34048 |
Nid Storage |
9645 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
277cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
711cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Haw River Near Bynum
|
304cfs |
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.
Lake Trace