Mullen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mullen Lake Dam, located in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet with a hydraulic height of 27 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the Tar River-Tr, offering a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

While the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment, it is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The last inspection took place in January 2001, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite its age, Mullen Lake Dam continues to provide a safe environment for recreation and enjoyment, with emergency preparedness measures yet to be fully detailed.

With its picturesque surroundings and vital role in water management, Mullen Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water resources. As climate change continues to impact our environment, the preservation of such structures becomes increasingly crucial. Whether for leisure activities or as a source of valuable data for climate research, Mullen Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the intersection of water resource management and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

475

River Or Stream

Tar River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.