Mcneil Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcneil Lake Dam, located in Saint Pauls, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the rich history of water resource management in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1841, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes on Big Marsh Swamp, offering a serene retreat for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. With a hydraulic height of 6 feet and a structural height of 7 feet, Mcneil Lake Dam spans 832 feet in length and holds a storage capacity of 154 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2011.

The dam, managed by a private owner, is not regulated by the state but undergoes periodic inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. With a normal storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1171 acres, Mcneil Lake Dam plays a crucial role in preserving the local ecosystem and providing essential water resources for the surrounding area. While it may not have a spillway or outlet gates, the dam continues to stand as a vital structure for both recreational and environmental purposes, attracting visitors from far and wide to experience its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the preservation and maintenance of dams like Mcneil Lake Dam become increasingly important. With a rich history dating back over a century, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the enduring relationship between humans and water, highlighting the need for sustainable practices in managing and protecting our precious water sources. Whether it's for leisurely activities or ecological conservation, Mcneil Lake Dam remains a symbol of resilience and stewardship in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1841

Dam Length

832

River Or Stream

Big Marsh Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

1171

Nid Storage

154

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
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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.