Aaran Lakes West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Aaran Lakes West Dam, located in Hopemills, North Carolina, is a local government-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 300 feet. It has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9 acres. The dam is situated on the Beaver Creek-Os river/stream and falls under the jurisdiction of various state regulatory agencies including NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.

Despite its recreational focus, Aaran Lakes West Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in January 2021. The dam has an inspection frequency of 2 years and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a history of no associated structures and no outlet gates, this dam serves as a key feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Cumberland County, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and leisure along the waterfront.

As stakeholders continue to monitor the safety and maintenance of Aaran Lakes West Dam, efforts may be needed to address its poor condition and high hazard potential. With its location in a recreational area and proximity to the Beaver Creek-Os waterway, the dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities while also requiring diligent oversight and regulatory compliance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and natural resources.

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Beaver Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.