Burlington Mills Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: B. E. Holland Dam Baldwin Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Burlington Mills Dam, located on the Second Broad River in Caroleen, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the state's early embrace of hydroelectric power.
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Summary
Built in 1900, this concrete arch dam has a height of 26 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, providing storage for up to 15 acre-feet of water. The dam serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation, contributing to the region's energy needs while also offering recreational opportunities on its 1-acre surface area.
Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment since its last inspection in 1990. With a significant hazard potential, there is a need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of downstream communities. As a privately owned structure without state regulation or permitting, the responsibility falls on the owner to implement risk management measures and emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.
The Burlington Mills Dam remains a historic landmark in North Carolina, showcasing the state's early advancements in hydroelectric infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to recognize the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure their continued safe operation and contribution to the region's energy needs. By staying informed and advocating for responsible dam management practices, we can help preserve these valuable resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
Second Broad River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Broad River Near Boiling Springs
|
623cfs |
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
64cfs |
Pacolet River Near Fingerville
|
106cfs |
North Pacolet River At Fingerville
|
113cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
53cfs |
Broad River Near Blacksburg
|
569cfs |
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.
Burlington Mills Dam