Young's Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Young's Lake, also known as Bragg-023, is a federal-owned recreational reservoir located in Spring Lake, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1993 by the US Army, this earth dam stands at 26 feet high and spans 900 feet in length, creating a surface area of 15 acres along Tr-Tank Creek. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and vertical lift outlet gates.

Despite its high hazard potential, Young's Lake has a moderate risk assessment rating and is inspected every four years by the US Army. The reservoir does not have a state regulatory agency overseeing its operations, permitting, or enforcement. While the condition assessment is currently unavailable, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2003, with no recent updates on its adherence to guidelines or the preparation of inundation maps for potential risk management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Young's Lake offers a fascinating example of a federally-owned recreational reservoir managed by the US Army. Its unique design and structural features contribute to the local landscape, providing opportunities for outdoor activities while also posing potential hazards that require careful monitoring and risk assessment. As a key part of the Wilmington District, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural water resources in the Cumberland County area.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

Tr-Tank Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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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.