Newkirk Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Newkirk Lake Dam, located in Wallace, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1850 for recreational purposes on Rockfish Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 770 feet, and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, it received a satisfactory condition assessment during the last inspection in October 2015.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Newkirk Lake Dam is not regulated by the state authorities but undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, and there are no associated structures or locks. While it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a recreational hub for the local community, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.

With its historic significance and role in providing recreational opportunities, Newkirk Lake Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations. As enthusiasts interested in water infrastructure and environmental conservation, the dam serves as a case study in balancing the needs of human recreation with the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

770

River Or Stream

Rockfish Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.