Hamlet City Lake Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Boyd Lake Dam L G Dewitt Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hamlet City Lake Upper Dam, also known as Water Lake Dam, is a vital structure located in Richmond, North Carolina, serving as a key recreational and water supply resource for the local community.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1908, this Earth type dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 10.6 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 735 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 447 acre-feet. The dam's reservoir covers 56 acres and is fed by Marks Creek, with a drainage area of 1,978 square miles.
Regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, Hamlet City Lake Upper Dam has a high hazard potential and is classified in fair condition as of the last assessment in January 2021. The dam undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its safety and functionality, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and water supply for the region, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and management of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Situated in the city of Hamlet, this iconic dam not only serves as a recreational hotspot but also as a reminder of the intricate balance between human development and natural ecosystems. With its rich history dating back over a century, Hamlet City Lake Upper Dam stands as a testament to the resilience of water resource infrastructure and the ongoing efforts to adapt to evolving environmental challenges. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to recognize the significance of structures like this dam in sustaining both the community's needs and the surrounding ecological landscape.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
810 |
River Or Stream |
Marks Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
56 |
Hydraulic Height |
10.6 |
Drainage Area |
1978 |
Nid Storage |
735 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
82cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
372cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
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.
Hamlet City Lake Upper Dam