Breeden Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Breeden Lake Dam, located in Carthage, North Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed in 1994 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 22.8 feet and a structural height of 26.3 feet, the dam sits on Mclendons Creek-Trail River and has a drainage area of 25.3 square miles. The dam has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 20 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 3 acres for recreational activities.
Although Breeden Lake Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the last inspection was conducted in October 2013. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and there are no associated structures or outlet gates. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permits or enforcement actions. Despite its relatively low risk assessment, water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Breeden Lake Dam an interesting case study for private dam management and recreational water storage in North Carolina.
Overall, Breeden Lake Dam serves as a recreational hub in Moore County, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. While the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction, its presence on Mclendons Creek-Trail River adds to the diverse water resource landscape of the region. With a focus on recreation and a history dating back to 1994, Breeden Lake Dam provides a unique perspective for those interested in the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and recreational uses in dam infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
360 |
River Or Stream |
Mclendons Ck-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.8 |
Drainage Area |
25.3 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
26.3 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Little River Near Star
|
16cfs |
Tick Creek Near Mount Vernon Springs
|
4cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
277cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hickory Campsite
|
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Sweetgum Campsite
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Camp Durant
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Loblolly Campsite
|
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Camp Reeves
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Breeden Lake Dam