Barnwell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barnwell Dam, located in Hopedale, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure along Deep Creek-Tr.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 24.2 feet and a structural height of 28.1 feet, providing a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet. The dam, with a length of 227 feet, offers a surface area of 4.5 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Maintained and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Barnwell Dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2019. The dam is subjected to inspections every 5 years to ensure its safety and reliability for recreation. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it serves as a vital resource for the community, offering opportunities for water-based activities and relaxation.

With its picturesque location and important role in providing recreational opportunities, Barnwell Dam stands as a prime example of responsible water resource management in North Carolina. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate can appreciate the balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship that this dam represents, ensuring both safety and sustainability for the surrounding community.

Dam Length

227

River Or Stream

Deep Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Hydraulic Height

24.2

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

28.1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.