Hester Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hester Millpond Dam, located in Butters, North Carolina, was completed in 1880 and serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a structural height of 8 feet with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 526 acre-feet. The dam sits on Bear Ford Swamp and has a drainage area of 4954 acres, providing a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching.

Despite being privately owned, the dam is inspected by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The last inspection conducted in January 2013 deemed the dam to be in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential. With a surface area of 85 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 66 cubic feet per second, Hester Millpond Dam remains a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy the beauty of North Carolina's natural landscape.

Although there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's historical significance and recreational value make it a cherished landmark in the Bladen County area. With its picturesque surroundings and tranquil waters, Hester Millpond Dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape into nature.

Year Completed

1880

Dam Length

1332

River Or Stream

Bear Ford Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

4954

Nid Storage

526

Structural Height

8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

8
       
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.