Maxton Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Maxton Lake Dam, located in Robeson County, North Carolina, was completed in 1850 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 1751 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 538 acre-feet and a normal storage of 448 acre-feet, the dam impounds water from the Big Shoe Heel Creek, creating a serene lake that covers a surface area yet to be determined.
Despite being privately owned and not state-regulated, Maxton Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in June 2012, with its condition deemed as "Not Rated". The dam has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, and its risk assessment, DSAC assignment date, risk characterization summary, and risk management measures remain undisclosed. While the dam poses minimal risk, its historical significance and value as a recreational resource make it an important feature in the local landscape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and monitor for any future developments.
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
1751 |
River Or Stream |
Big Shoe Heel Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
538 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Shoe Heel Creek Nr Laurinburg
|
56cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
274cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Lumber River At Lumberton
|
463cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
100cfs |
Pee Dee River Nr Bennettsville
|
2280cfs |
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.
Maxton Lake Dam