Southern Pines Waterworks Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Southern Pines Waterworks Dam, also known as Reservoir Park Dam, is a key water resource in Lakeview, North Carolina, owned and regulated by the local government.


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Summary

Situated along Mill Creek, this earth dam was completed in 1924 and stands at a structural height of 26 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22 feet. The dam plays a crucial role in recreation, offering a surface area of 61 acres and a normal storage capacity of 400 acre-feet.

Despite its recreational appeal, Southern Pines Waterworks Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in fair condition as of October 2020. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards set by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. With a maximum storage capacity of 700 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,112 acres, the dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding community while also offering opportunities for leisure activities.

With its historical significance and environmental impact, Southern Pines Waterworks Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience. As enthusiasts and advocates for water conservation and climate action, it is essential to stay informed and engaged in the ongoing maintenance and regulation of such vital infrastructure to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

640

River Or Stream

Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

61

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

1112

Nid Storage

700

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.