Wills Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bass Lake Dam Rudy Hill Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Wills Pond, also known as Bear Creek Watershed Dam #4, is a privately owned earth dam located in Lagrange, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, it serves as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the Old Mill Branch. With a maximum storage capacity of 768 acre-feet and a normal storage of 79 acre-feet, Wills Pond covers a surface area of 24.6 acres and has a drainage area of 1498 acres.
The dam stands at a structural height of 19 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet, ensuring its ability to withstand flood events and protect the surrounding area. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Wills Pond has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 2008. While it primarily serves the purpose of flood risk reduction, it also provides recreational opportunities for the local community, showcasing the multifaceted benefits of water resource management in Wayne County.
Although not regulated by the state, Wills Pond undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for water management in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Wills Pond play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events and protecting both the environment and local communities.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
800 |
River Or Stream |
Old Mill Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
24.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1498 |
Nid Storage |
768 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
631cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
34cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Contentnea Creek At Hookerton
|
195cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
917cfs |
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.
Wills Pond