Carolina Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: F. Marsh Pond Dam Lawrence Lyerly Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Carolina Lake Dam, also known as Atco Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Vass, North Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 1985, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The dam sits on Herds Creek and has a hydraulic height of 17.8 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, with a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet.
Despite its scenic appeal, Carolina Lake Dam has been deemed to have a significant hazard potential and an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of its last inspection in May 2011. The dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, and its ownership remains private. With a drainage area of 460 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 670 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the Moore County region.
While Carolina Lake Dam offers a tranquil setting for recreational activities, its condition and hazard potential warrant further attention and potential risk management measures. With its location in a picturesque natural environment and its important role in water resource management, the dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1985 |
River Or Stream |
Herds Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.8 |
Drainage Area |
460 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
10cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
254cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
310cfs |
Tick Creek Near Mount Vernon Springs
|
5cfs |
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
169cfs |
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.
Carolina Lake Dam