Hinson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Hinson Lake Dam, located in Rockingham, North Carolina, is a state-owned structure on Falling Creek with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
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Summary
Completed in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 500 feet. The dam provides a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 18 acres, serving as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Hinson Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program. The dam's normal storage capacity is 90 acre-feet, and it has a maximum discharge rate of 165 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 7488 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and supporting the local ecosystem.
Water enthusiasts interested in the intersection of dam infrastructure, fish and wildlife conservation, and recreational opportunities will find Hinson Lake Dam to be a fascinating site to explore. With its historical significance, regulatory oversight, and environmental impact, this state-owned structure on Falling Creek offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities associated with managing water resources in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
500 |
River Or Stream |
Falling Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
7488 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pee Dee R Nr Rockingham
|
1810cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
216cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2390cfs |
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
91cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
329cfs |
Rocky River Near Norwood
|
556cfs |
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.
Hinson Lake Dam