Bass Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wills Pond Rudy Hill Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Bass Lake Dam, also known as Bear Creek W/S Dam #3, is a private dam located in Lagrange, North Carolina, along the West Bear Creek river.
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Summary
Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 18.5 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 467 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 63 acres and drains a watershed area of 2637 acres.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a fair condition assessment as of December 2019. It has an uncontrolled spillway type and outlet gates. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam has not experienced any major modifications in recent years. The state of North Carolina regulates and inspects the dam periodically to ensure its safety and functionality. Overall, Bass Lake Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for flood risk management in the Wayne County region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bass Lake Dam offers a fascinating example of earth dam construction and flood risk reduction in action. Its location in the picturesque setting of Lagrange, North Carolina, along the West Bear Creek river, adds to its appeal for recreational activities. As a privately owned structure with state regulatory oversight, Bass Lake Dam represents a harmonious balance between human-made infrastructure and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for the community's benefit.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1110 |
River Or Stream |
West Bear Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
63 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
2637 |
Nid Storage |
467 |
Structural Height |
18.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Contentnea Creek At Hookerton
|
466cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
1090cfs |
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.
Bass Lake Dam