Mckellars Lake (Lower) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mckellars Lake (Lower) is a federally-owned recreational lake located in Pope Afb Nc, North Carolina.
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Summary
The dam, completed in 1938, stands at a height of 12 feet and has a controlled spillway width of 20 feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet and a surface area of 13 acres.
The dam is managed by the US Army and is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam. The lake is fed by Mcpherson Creek and has a maximum discharge capacity of 67 cubic feet per second.
Overall, Mckellars Lake (Lower) serves as a vital recreational resource in Cumberland, North Carolina, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities while also being managed carefully to prioritize public safety and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Mcpherson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River At Manchester
|
161cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
6cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
314cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1070cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
104cfs |
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.
Mckellars Lake (Lower)