Pope Lake Dam, located in Harnett County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1885 for recreational purposes along the Black River.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, the dam spans 1254 feet in length and has a maximum storage capacity of 169 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 141 acre-feet and a surface area of 110 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the Dunn area.
Although not regulated by the state, Pope Lake Dam is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in 2008. Despite lacking an established Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated inundation maps, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for visitors while remaining a key feature of the Black River landscape. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find Pope Lake Dam an intriguing example of historical dam construction and its role in supporting local ecosystems.
As a relic of 19th-century engineering, Pope Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural landscapes. With its modest storage capacity and low hazard potential, the dam offers a glimpse into how early infrastructure developments continue to shape our interactions with water resources today. For those interested in the intersection of environmental preservation and recreational use, Pope Lake Dam serves as a compelling case study of balancing human needs with ecosystem protection in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1885 |
Dam Length |
1254 |
River Or Stream |
Black River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
110 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
6240 |
Nid Storage |
169 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
10 |
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