Pine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pine Lake Dam, located in Orton, North Carolina, is a local government-owned structure built in 1964 for recreational purposes on Allen Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 10 feet and has a length of 1040 feet, with a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. While the dam is primarily used for recreation, it also serves as a vital component for water resource management in the region, with a drainage area of 544 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Pine Lake Dam undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection was conducted in January 2019, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated," indicating the need for further evaluation. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks detailed risk assessment and emergency preparedness plans, its presence contributes significantly to the local water ecosystem and provides valuable recreational opportunities for the community.

As a key feature in the Wilmington District, Pine Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting recreational activities in Brunswick County. With its modest size and low hazard potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and well-being of surrounding communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Pine Lake Dam to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public recreation.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1040

River Or Stream

Allen Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

544

Nid Storage

400

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.