Lake Providence Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Providence Dam is a privately-owned structure located in Union, North Carolina, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1988, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 24 feet, with a hydraulic height of 18.3 feet and a length of 290 feet. It impounds Twelvemile Creek-Tr, creating a surface area of 9 acres and a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2020. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in February 2018, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and safety.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Providence Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam ownership and management. With its recreational focus and potential impacts on the surrounding environment, this structure serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our water resources and communities against the risks associated with dams.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

290

River Or Stream

Twelvemile Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

18.3

Drainage Area

117

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.