Powell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Powell Lake Dam, located in Aberdeen, North Carolina, was completed in 1865 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, an Earth type structure, stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 400 feet. It has a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 90 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 19 acres. The dam is situated on the Aberdeen Creek-Tr river or stream, under the jurisdiction of Moore County.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2011, Powell Lake Dam is deemed to have significant hazard potential. The last inspection date was in December 2011, indicating a need for more frequent monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain features like spillways and locks, it remains a vital part of the recreational landscape in the area. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change can appreciate the historical significance and engineering challenges associated with Powell Lake Dam.

Year Completed

1865

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Aberdeen Ck-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.