Lupo Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Hoke, North Carolina, the Lupo Lake Dam is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, this earth dam spans 225 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet. However, despite its recreational value, the dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment, indicating a need for urgent attention.

The dam, situated on the Black Branch stream, falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, efforts are being made to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The last inspection in January 2021 revealed the dam's poor condition, emphasizing the need for a risk assessment and management plan to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding community.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the Lupo Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam safety and management. With its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and maintenance strategies to ensure the safety of both the structure and the environment it impacts. As stakeholders work towards addressing the dam's deficiencies, the case of Lupo Lake Dam highlights the critical intersection between recreational infrastructure and public safety in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Dam Length

225

River Or Stream

Black Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

26

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.