Gates Four Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Cumberland, North Carolina, the Gates Four Dam, also known as the Gates Four Golf Course Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Constructed in 1940 on the Little Rockfish Creek, this earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, with a length of 610 feet. The reservoir created by the dam has a normal storage capacity of 164 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres, providing a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities.

Despite its recreational function, the Gates Four Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2021. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparation are areas that require further attention to enhance overall risk management and emergency preparedness.

As a prominent feature in the Pine Knoll area, the Gates Four Dam offers not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical structure for water resource management and environmental conservation. With ongoing oversight and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to provide a valuable asset to the local community while balancing the need for safety and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

610

River Or Stream

Little Rockfish Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

173

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.