Lewis Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lewis Millpond Dam, located in Montgomery, North Carolina, serves as a critical water supply source for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1880, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 13 feet, with a capacity of 62 acre-feet for storage. Situated on Big Creek, the dam covers a surface area of 9 acres and has a drainage area of 3456 square miles, providing essential water resources for the community.

Despite its historical significance, Lewis Millpond Dam is currently in poor condition and poses a low hazard potential, according to a 2013 assessment. The dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks updated emergency action plans and risk management measures. With no state regulation or permitting in place, the responsibility for inspection falls on the private owner. However, with regular state inspections, the dam continues to operate effectively as a crucial water supply infrastructure in the region.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the condition and maintenance of dams like Lewis Millpond Dam become increasingly important. Ensuring the safety and functionality of such structures is essential for sustainable water management and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Advocates for water resource and climate enthusiasts are encouraged to monitor and support efforts to maintain and improve the condition of dams like Lewis Millpond Dam to safeguard water supply and mitigate risks in the future.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

144

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

3456

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.