Newton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Newton Lake Dam, located in Scotch Grove, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, with a length of 720 feet. It holds a normal storage capacity of 48 acre-feet on the Juniper Creek-Os river system.

The dam's low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment make it a key feature for water resource management in the region. Despite not being state regulated or permitted, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge of 40 cubic feet per second and uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, Newton Lake Dam plays a crucial role in supporting both irrigation and recreational activities in the area.

As a structure maintained by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Newton Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and management. Its historical significance, coupled with its strategic location and design features, highlights its importance in the overall climate and water resource management framework in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

720

River Or Stream

Juniper Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.