Neill Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Neill Dam, located in Catawba, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1987, the dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet, with a length of 770 feet. It impounds the South Fork Mtn. Creek, creating a surface area of 28 acres and a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet.
The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with state inspections and enforcement ensuring its safety and compliance. The last inspection in September 2017 rated the dam's condition as fair, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its age, Neill Dam continues to provide recreational opportunities while being monitored and maintained in accordance with state regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Neill Dam serves as a fascinating example of how private dams can contribute to both recreation and water management in North Carolina. Its design and history offer insight into the state's dam safety practices and the importance of ongoing inspections to ensure the structural integrity of these vital infrastructure elements in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
770 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Mtn. Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
891 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Neill Dam