Moss Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moss Lake Dam, located in Hares Crossroads, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1972 primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a hydraulic height of 27 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, impounds the waters of the Little River-Tr and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. With a length of 510 feet and a surface area of 4 acres, Moss Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing irrigation for surrounding areas.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2021, Moss Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential. The dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets regulatory standards and is safe for continued operation. With a maximum discharge capacity of 13 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

As a significant feature in the Wilmington District, Moss Lake Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management and recreation in the area. Its strategic location and design make it a valuable asset for both agricultural needs and leisure activities, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in Wake County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

510

River Or Stream

Little River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.