Mott Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mott Lake Dam, also known as Bragg-004, is a federal structure located in Spring Lake, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1937 by the US Army, this earth dam on Nicholson Creek serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and other uses. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 1890 feet, the dam provides a normal storage capacity of 629 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1882 acre-feet.
The dam has a high hazard potential due to its location and design, with uncontrolled spillways and outlets. Despite its age, Mott Lake Dam is regularly inspected by the US Army, with the last inspection conducted in November 2017. A risk assessment classifies the dam's risk level as moderate (3), prompting the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures. While the condition assessment is currently not available, the emergency action plan was last revised in November 2018.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and ecological impact of Mott Lake Dam. Its role in providing a habitat for fish and wildlife, as well as recreational opportunities, showcases the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship. As a federally-owned and operated structure, the dam's management and maintenance by the US Army ensure the safety and functionality of this critical water resource infrastructure in North Carolina's Hoke County.
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1890 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Nicholson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
93 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
13 |
Nid Storage |
1882 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
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.
Mott Lake Dam