Mills Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Love Pond Ararat Rock Products Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Mills Dam, located in Ararat, North Carolina, along Stoney Creek-Tr, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
The dam, with a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, serves a vital role in providing a storage capacity of 31.2 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3 acres and a drainage area of 14 acres, Mills Dam contributes to the local ecosystem and water resources management in the region.
Although Mills Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, the last inspection dates back to December 2012. Despite its age, the dam continues to operate efficiently and safely, showcasing its importance in the area. The dam, under the ownership of a private entity, offers a picturesque location for recreational activities and serves as a valuable asset in the community.
As climate change continues to impact water resources across the country, structures like Mills Dam play a crucial role in managing water levels and providing recreational opportunities. With its historical significance and contribution to the local environment, Mills Dam stands as a symbol of sustainable water resource management and the importance of preserving our natural landscapes for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
492 |
River Or Stream |
Stoney Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
31.2 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ararat River At Ararat
|
138cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Little Yadkin River At Dalton
|
14cfs |
Dan River Near Francisco
|
80cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
728cfs |
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.
Mills Dam