Pine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pine Lake Dam, also known as Mcqueen Lake Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Laurel Hill, North Carolina, along Gum Swamp Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1952, this earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a surface area of 19 acres and a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet. With a structural height of 18 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, the dam is essential for managing water resources in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of February 2021, Pine Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources, Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The last inspection in February 2021 indicated a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold the dam's integrity and safety standards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Pine Lake Dam can appreciate its significant role in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the importance of maintaining its safety and functionality. As a key structure in the region's water management system, the dam requires continuous attention to mitigate risks and ensure its long-term sustainability for the benefit of both local communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

920

River Or Stream

Gum Swamp Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1145

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.