Deering Milliken Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Deering Milliken Dam, located in Polk, North Carolina, stands as a vital water supply structure in the region.
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Summary
The off-line dam, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and structural height of 23.5 feet, serves the primary purpose of providing water for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable water supply for the community.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Deering Milliken Dam poses a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection took place in January 2012, with the dam's condition yet to be formally assessed. Emergency action plans (EAP) and risk management measures are not readily available, raising concerns about preparedness in case of emergencies.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Deering Milliken Dam serves as a reminder of the essential role dams play in water supply management. With its significant hazard potential and lack of recent assessments, there is a pressing need for enhanced monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of this crucial infrastructure in Polk County.
Dam Length |
1780 |
River Or Stream |
off-line |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
23.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Deering Milliken Dam