Morgan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hales Dam Stancil Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Morgan Lake Dam, located in Rock Ridge, North Carolina, was completed in 1926 for the primary purpose of irrigation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This privately owned earth dam on Big Branch has a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 531 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and serves both irrigation and recreational purposes, covering a surface area of 10 acres.
Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state inspections, with the last one conducted in July 1976. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, the dam remains a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure. While not regulated by the state, the dam provides essential water management for the surrounding area.
As a noteworthy feature in the water resource landscape of Nash County, Morgan Lake Dam's historical significance and ongoing function as an irrigation source make it a valuable asset for the community. Its presence on Big Branch contributes to the overall water management system in the region, highlighting the intersection between human infrastructure and natural resources in addressing water needs for both agricultural and recreational purposes.
Year Completed |
1926 |
Dam Length |
531 |
River Or Stream |
Big Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Neuse River Near Clayton
|
384cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
240cfs |
Tar R At Us 401 At Louisburg
|
97cfs |
Swift Creek At Hilliardston
|
858cfs |
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.
Morgan Lake Dam