Hall Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hall Lake Dam, located in Salemburg, North Carolina, along Bearskin Swamp, stands as a significant earth dam constructed in 1900 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, the dam stretches 600 feet in length and holds a maximum storage capacity of 78 acre-feet of water. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was deemed poor during its last inspection in 2011.

The dam, owned privately and not state-regulated, overlooks a surface area of 80 acres with a drainage area of 7,360 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 198 cubic feet per second, Hall Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational site for enthusiasts in the area. However, its outdated condition and lack of recent maintenance raise concerns about its long-term sustainability and safety for surrounding communities.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor and address the deteriorating condition of Hall Lake Dam to ensure the safety of residents and the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. With a focus on improving its structural integrity and conducting regular inspections, stakeholders can work towards enhancing the dam's resilience and securing its role in providing recreational activities while safeguarding against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

600

River Or Stream

Bearskin Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

7360

Nid Storage

78

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.