Herring Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Herring Lake Dam, located in Sampson, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
Built by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 27 feet in height and has a length of 26 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Mcphail Branch, serves as a vital component in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Herring Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, indicating its design for managing water flow during periods of high discharge. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is closely monitored to implement any necessary risk management measures to mitigate potential threats.
As a key structure in the water management system of Sampson County, Herring Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events. With its strategic location and design by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in North Carolina.
Dam Length |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Mcphail Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
711cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
668cfs |
Middle Creek Near Clayton
|
54cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1860cfs |
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.
Herring Lake Dam