Wall Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Steele Millpond Dam Battley Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Wall Lake Dam, located in Richmond County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1913, this Earth dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Speed Creek and covers a drainage area of 2547 square miles, providing a surface area of 13 acres for recreational activities.
Despite its historical significance, Wall Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in January 2021 revealed the need for frequent monitoring and maintenance due to its age and condition. The dam lacks certain safety features such as a spillway type and outlet gates, raising concerns about its ability to handle maximum discharge levels of 188 cubic feet per second. The dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are currently under evaluation, highlighting the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of this vital water resource.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wall Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role dams play in providing recreational opportunities and water storage in North Carolina. With ongoing regulatory oversight from the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, efforts are being made to address the dam's deficiencies and mitigate potential risks. As discussions surrounding dam safety and management continue, it is crucial to prioritize the maintenance and improvement of structures like Wall Lake Dam to safeguard both the environment and public safety for future generations.
Year Completed |
1913 |
Dam Length |
322 |
River Or Stream |
Speed Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
2547 |
Nid Storage |
92 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1830cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2460cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
82cfs |
Rocky River Near Norwood
|
305cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
372cfs |
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.
Wall Lake Dam