Matthews Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Matthews Lake Dam in Sampson, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1900, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 10 feet, with a hydraulic height of 8 feet and a length of 250 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 79 acre-feet. The reservoir created by the dam covers an area of 17 acres and is fed by the Little Coharie Creek.

Although the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in February 2008, it is classified as having a significant hazard potential. While it is not state regulated, maintenance and inspections are conducted periodically to ensure its safety. The dam is located in Clear Run and is under the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District, with no associated structures or locks. With a maximum discharge capacity of 132 cubic feet per second, Matthews Lake Dam remains a key feature in the local water resource infrastructure and a popular spot for recreational activities.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Little Coharie Ck-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

79

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

10
       
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.