Matthews Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Matthews Dam, located on Hicks Branch in Sampson County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily designated for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1987 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 13 feet, providing a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a normal storage of 130 acre-feet. With a surface area of 25 acres and a drainage area of 426 square miles, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities and water recreation.
Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Matthews Dam is subject to periodic inspections to ensure its continued safety and integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with no associated locks, emphasizing its focus on recreation rather than flood control. In 2013, the structure was last inspected, and while it meets regulatory requirements, there is a moderate risk associated with its operation which highlights the need for ongoing risk management measures to maintain the dam's functionality and safety for both visitors and the surrounding environment.
As a significant landmark in the area, Matthews Dam represents a harmonious blend of water resource management and recreational opportunities. Situated within the Wilmington District and overlooking the scenic Hicks Branch, this dam serves as a testament to the balance between human enjoyment and environmental conservation. With its historical significance, moderate risk assessment, and continued maintenance, Matthews Dam remains a cherished destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the beauty and functionality of dam infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1987 |
Dam Length |
423 |
River Or Stream |
Hicks Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Drainage Area |
426 |
Nid Storage |
170 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
668cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
549cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
1090cfs |
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.
Matthews Dam