Watson Lake Dam #2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Yadco Lake Dam Watson Lake Dam #1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Watson Lake Dam #2, also known as Lake Dornoch, is a privately owned earth dam located in Aberdeen, North Carolina.
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Summary
The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program and is primarily used for recreation purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 252 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 196 acre-feet. Aberdeen Creek is the river or stream that the dam controls, with a drainage area of 5,760 acres.
With a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, Watson Lake Dam #2 poses a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2021. The dam has a length of 950 feet and a surface area of 35 acres, making it an important feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. While the dam does not have outlet gates or associated structures, it is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and integrity for both recreational and environmental purposes.
Overall, Watson Lake Dam #2 serves as a vital recreational resource in Moore County, North Carolina, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based recreation. As a privately owned structure, the dam's maintenance and safety are overseen by state regulatory agencies to prevent potential risks and ensure the continued enjoyment of the surrounding community. With its location on Aberdeen Creek and its significant storage capacity, Watson Lake Dam #2 is an essential feature for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Dam Length |
950 |
River Or Stream |
Aberdeen Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
5760 |
Nid Storage |
252 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Lumber River Near Maxton
|
372cfs |
Little River Near Star
|
16cfs |
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.
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