Burke Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burke Dam, located in Swepsonville, North Carolina, serves as a vital structure for debris control along the Quaker Creek-Tr river.


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Summary

Built in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 19.8 feet and a structural height of 26.9 feet, with a total length of 350 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 148 acre-feet and a normal storage of 65 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 8.8 acres and drains a vast area of 613 acres.

Despite its age, Burke Dam has shown a satisfactory condition assessment as of December 2012, with a low hazard potential. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its efficient debris control function. With moderate risk management measures in place, Burke Dam continues to play a crucial role in protecting the surrounding environment and water resources. The Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees this significant structure, ensuring its proper maintenance and operation for the benefit of the community.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

Quaker Ck-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.8

Hydraulic Height

19.8

Drainage Area

613

Nid Storage

148

Structural Height

26.9

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.