Jerry L. Mills Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Camp Kirkwood Lake Dam Bond Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Jerry L.
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Summary
Mills Dam, also known as Jerry L. Mills Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Pender County, North Carolina. Built in 1983 by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 2100 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 182 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, specifically for fish and wildlife pond management, as well as recreational activities.
Situated on Tr- Lewis Creek Pit Pot Branch, this low-hazard dam is primarily regulated and managed by the USDA NRCS. With a moderate risk rating, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, but is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 30 feet, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam serves an important role in managing water resources and providing recreational opportunities for the local community in Wilmington.
Overall, Jerry L. Mills Dam represents an essential piece of infrastructure in the region, supporting fish and wildlife habitats, recreational activities, and water storage needs. While it may not pose a significant risk, regular inspections and maintenance ensure its continued functionality and safety for both the environment and the surrounding community. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, understanding the role and significance of structures like Jerry L. Mills Dam is crucial in managing and preserving our natural resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
2100 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
Tr- Lewis Creek Pit Pot Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.28 |
Nid Storage |
182 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
549cfs |
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
668cfs |
Cape Fear R At Lock #1 Nr Kelly
|
2420cfs |
New River Near Gum Branch
|
42cfs |
Trent River Near Trenton
|
19cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
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.
Jerry L. Mills Dam