Johnson Lake Dam #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Johnson Lake Dam #3, located in Hamilton, North Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam built in 1950 for irrigation purposes on Occoneechee Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, the dam spans 600 feet and has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge rate of 66 cubic feet per second. Despite being last inspected in 1976, the dam has a low hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition.

While the dam has not undergone recent assessment or modifications, it remains a crucial structure for water supply in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 138 acre-feet, Johnson Lake Dam #3 plays a vital role in supporting agriculture and irrigation needs in Northampton County. Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the dam has been inspected for safety concerns and meets the necessary requirements for operation.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the condition of Johnson Lake Dam #3 and advocate for regular inspections to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With the potential to impact water supply and irrigation in the region, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining infrastructure to support sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

600

River Or Stream

Occoneechee Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

166

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

10
       
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.