Mcneil Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Griffin Lake Dam Johnson Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mcneil Lake Dam, located in Spring Lake, North Carolina, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, the dam offers a maximum storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. Despite its recreational appeal, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, signaling the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Mcneil Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam overlooks the scenic Little River-Trib, providing an important source of water resource in the region. However, given its current condition and hazard potential, stakeholders and enthusiasts in water resource and climate sectors may advocate for necessary improvements to ensure the dam's long-term safety and sustainability.
With a history of modifications and regular inspection schedules, Mcneil Lake Dam remains a vital structure for recreation and water management in Moore County, North Carolina. As climate change impacts intensify, ensuring the dam's resilience and functionality becomes paramount. Engaging with state regulatory agencies, implementing risk management measures, and emphasizing dam safety protocols are crucial steps towards safeguarding this essential water resource infrastructure for future generations of enthusiasts and stakeholders alike.
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
Little River-Trib |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
181cfs |
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
711cfs |
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.
Mcneil Lake Dam