Novo Lagoon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mitchner Dam Hidden Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Novo Lagoon, located in Franklinton, North Carolina, is a privately owned water resource primarily used for fire protection and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
This Earth dam structure, completed in 1994, has a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 37 feet, providing a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet. The lagoon covers an area of 5 acres and is fed by Cedar Creek.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Novo Lagoon poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection took place in March 2002, highlighting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With a history of serving multiple purposes and providing water storage, Novo Lagoon is a valuable resource for the local community that must be managed effectively to mitigate any potential risks.
In the midst of climate change and increasing water scarcity, Novo Lagoon serves as a vital asset for firefighting and supporting local fish populations. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of maintaining and safeguarding such infrastructure to ensure its continued functionality and environmental benefits for the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
480 |
River Or Stream |
Cedar Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tar R At Us 401 At Louisburg
|
55cfs |
Tar River Near Tar River
|
23cfs |
Neuse River Near Falls
|
68cfs |
Marsh C Nr New Hope
|
1cfs |
Crabtree Creek At Us 1 At Raleigh
|
43cfs |
Knap Of Reeds Creek Near Butner
|
55cfs |
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.
Novo Lagoon