Mckinney Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mckinney Lake Dam, located in Ledbetter, North Carolina, is a federal-owned structure that plays a crucial role in providing water supply to the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 1848 acre-feet. The dam, designed by Schnabel Engineering Assoc., Inc & URS Corporation, spans 440 feet in length and is primarily used for water supply purposes.

State-regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Mckinney Lake Dam has undergone modifications in 2001 to enhance its foundation, hydraulic, and structural integrity. With a significant hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2009, the dam is subject to regular inspections every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. In the event of emergencies, the dam is equipped with controlled outlet gates for proper water release.

With its location on Hitchcock Creek and association with the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Mckinney Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in Richmond County, North Carolina. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing efforts to maintain its safety and operational effectiveness in providing essential water supply to the region.

Years Modified

2001 - Foundation, 2001 - Hydraulic, 2001 - Structural

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

HITCHCOCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

73

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

10.3

Nid Storage

1848

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.