Melva Brook Pond Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: David Weil Dam Ballis Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Melva Brook Pond Lower Dam, located in Clinton, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 13.3 feet and a structural height of 18.3 feet, serves primarily for recreation purposes, providing storage of up to 37 acre-feet of water. The dam, constructed on Rowan Branch-Tr river, covers a surface area of 5 acres and has a length of 420 feet.
Despite its recreational value, Melva Brook Pond Lower Dam poses a high hazard potential according to its last inspection in November 2020, which also assessed its condition as poor. With an inspection frequency of every 2 years, this dam requires attention to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of the surrounding area. Although no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared to date, it is crucial for stakeholders to address the risk management measures and update the necessary guidelines to mitigate potential hazards.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role dams like Melva Brook Pond Lower Dam play in providing recreational opportunities while also posing risks highlights the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory oversight. With its location in Sampson County and close proximity to Wilmington District, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource utilization and the need for effective risk management in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Length |
420 |
River Or Stream |
Rowan Branch-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
13.3 |
Nid Storage |
37 |
Structural Height |
18.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
668cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
549cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1860cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
125cfs |
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.
Melva Brook Pond Lower Dam