Waters Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Waters Millpond Dam, located in Kinston, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1855.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this dam stands at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 166 acre-feet. The dam spans 400 feet in length and covers a surface area of 30 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water sports.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Waters Millpond Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in September 2019. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a drainage area of 1152 square miles and a maximum discharge of 198 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and protecting against potential flooding events.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Waters Millpond Dam to be an intriguing example of historic dam infrastructure in North Carolina. With its rich history dating back to the 19th century and its continued importance for recreational purposes, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human activity and the natural environment. As efforts are made to maintain and inspect the dam for safety, it stands as a symbol of both the challenges and opportunities in managing water resources in a changing climate.

Year Completed

1855

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Moseley Creek - Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1152

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.