Circle R Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Creek Dam Oak Forest Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Circle R Lake Dam, also known as Gupton Lake Dam, is a private dam located in Franklin, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, offering a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Taylor's Creek-Tr, part of the Wilmington District, and is owned by a private entity.
Although not regulated by the state, Circle R Lake Dam has been inspected and deemed to have a low hazard potential. The last inspection took place in 2003, with the condition assessment marked as "Not Rated." Despite the lack of state jurisdiction and permitting, the dam continues to serve its recreational purpose in the Franklinton area. With its picturesque setting and historical significance, Circle R Lake Dam remains a notable landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
270 |
River Or Stream |
Taylor'S Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Circle R Lake Dam