Pope Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pope Lake Dam, located in Harnett County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1885 for recreational purposes along the Black River.


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Summary

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
       
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.