Atkinson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Atkinson Lake Dam, located in Hares Crossroads, North Carolina, is a private dam built in 1959 with the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 25 feet high and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 114 acre-feet, serving the Little River-Tr watershed with a drainage area of 109 square miles.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Atkinson Lake Dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in December 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a moderate risk assessment. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are unspecified. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Atkinson Lake Dam an intriguing site for its recreational purpose and moderate risk level within the Johnston, North Carolina region.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
510 |
River Or Stream |
Little River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
109 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Atkinson Lake Dam