Johnson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Johnson Pond Dam, also known as Johnson Lake Dam, is a picturesque earthen dam located in Lillington, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1958 for recreational purposes, this dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet, with a hydraulic height of 16 feet. It has a storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 77 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 9 acres.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Johnson Pond Dam is considered to have a high hazard potential, but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in November 2019. The dam is state-regulated, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Located along the Black Creek-Tr river, this dam serves as a recreational spot for locals and visitors, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Johnson Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study of a well-maintained earthen dam with a primary purpose of recreation. With its historical significance, structural design, and regulatory oversight, this dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the need for safe and sustainable infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts continue to monitor and manage this dam, it serves as a vital link between water conservation, recreation, and environmental stewardship in the Wake County area of North Carolina.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Black Creek-Tr

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.