Holiday Lake Dam Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Holiday Lake Dam Upper in Cumnock, North Carolina, is a private dam on Patterson Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a structural height of 20 feet and a length of 365 feet, provides a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. It is located in Lee County and falls under state jurisdiction, regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently rated as satisfactory in condition based on the last inspection in September 2018, with regular inspections occurring every two years.

This Earth-type dam, part of the Wilmington District, serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities. While the dam does not have spillways or outlet gates, it is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 250 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-related activities, making it a picturesque destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's satisfactory condition and regular inspections ensure the safety of both visitors and the surrounding community.

Holiday Lake Dam Upper's location on Patterson Creek provides a serene setting for those looking to connect with nature while also appreciating the engineering marvel of the dam. With its storage capacity and recreational opportunities, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources for both enjoyment and safety. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience will find Holiday Lake Dam Upper to be a captivating destination that showcases the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty in the heart of North Carolina.

Dam Length

365

River Or Stream

Patterson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.