Johnson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Johnson Pond Dam, located in Spring Lake, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam on the Little River-Trib that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, this dam boasts a length of 212 feet and a storage capacity of 6.5 acre-feet. Despite not being state regulated, it is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment taking place in February 2021, revealing a high hazard potential but an undetermined condition rating.

The dam, with a normal storage capacity of 5 acre-feet and a surface area of 1 acre, poses a potential risk in case of structural failure, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While no emergency action plan (EAP) or specific risk management measures are currently in place, the dam's location and design suggest the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of the Little River-Trib ecosystem. Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Johnson Pond Dam to be an intriguing case study in the intersection of human recreation and environmental stewardship in North Carolina.

With its scenic location and vital role in providing recreational opportunities, Johnson Pond Dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human development and nature conservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the nuances of this privately owned structure, they can contemplate the implications of its high hazard potential and the need for robust risk assessment and management strategies. By examining this dam's unique characteristics and potential vulnerabilities, stakeholders can work towards ensuring its long-term sustainability and the protection of both human and environmental interests in the Moore County region.

Dam Length

212

River Or Stream

Little River-Trib

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

56

Nid Storage

6.5

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.