Moss Lake Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moss Lake Dam #2, located in Halifax, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1946 for fire protection and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

The dam, which stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, serves as a crucial water resource for the community. Situated on the Jack Horse Swamp, the dam has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 330 cubic feet per second.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Moss Lake Dam #2 has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 2002. The dam lacks an emergency action plan and inundation maps, raising concerns about its readiness in the event of a disaster. While the structure has not been modified in recent years, the absence of updated risk assessments and management measures highlights the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding area.

With its historical significance and vital role in water resource management, Moss Lake Dam #2 serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and assessing infrastructure to mitigate potential risks. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial for dam owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk management measures to safeguard communities and ecosystems that rely on these structures.

Year Completed

1946

Dam Length

612

River Or Stream

Jack Horse Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.