Bill Ellis Lagoon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buckhorn Lake Hinnants Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Bill Ellis Lagoon, located in Wilson, North Carolina, is a privately owned water resource with a significant impact on the local environment.
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Summary
Built in 1988 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet and serves a primary purpose of "Other," with a storage capacity of 26.3 acre-feet. The lagoon covers a surface area of 3 acres and has a drainage area of 3.4 acres, making it a vital component of the local water management infrastructure.
Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Bill Ellis Lagoon is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of February 2021, with a significant hazard potential. Despite its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, the lagoon presents a moderate risk (3) according to the latest risk assessment. With its location in the Marsh Swamp-Os watershed and under the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District, this water resource plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region.
As a key feature of the local landscape, Bill Ellis Lagoon is not only a practical resource for water management but also a reflection of the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental sustainability. With its stone core and soil foundation, the lagoon represents a blend of modern engineering and natural materials to achieve its operational goals. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate design and management of this dam, which stands as a testament to the importance of effective water infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on our communities.
Year Completed |
1988 |
Dam Length |
800 |
River Or Stream |
Marsh Swamp-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.4 |
Nid Storage |
26.3 |
Structural Height |
15.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Neuse River Near Clayton
|
258cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
34cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
63cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
602cfs |
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.
Bill Ellis Lagoon