Newcomb Lagoon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Newcomb Lagoon, located in Franklin, North Carolina, is a privately owned water resource with a significant hazard potential.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This Earth-type dam has a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet and a structural height of 17.5 feet, with a total length of 883 feet. With a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.8 acres, Newcomb Lagoon plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

Although not state-regulated, Newcomb Lagoon has undergone inspections in the past, with the last inspection conducted in March 1999. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and there are no emergency action plans prepared or updated for the site. Despite these challenges, the lagoon remains a key water resource in the area, serving various purposes beyond flood control and irrigation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Newcomb Lagoon an intriguing site, given its unique characteristics and significant hazard potential. As a privately owned dam in North Carolina, its role in water management and conservation is essential, despite the lack of state regulation. With a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.8 acres, Newcomb Lagoon provides valuable insights into the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

883

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Nid Storage

48

Structural Height

17.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.