Wiggins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wiggins Lake Dam, located in Richmond County, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Situated along the Pee Dee River - Os, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 14 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 9.6 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 11.2 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 2 acres. Despite being non-state regulated, the dam poses a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in January 2021.

The dam, completed at an unknown date, has not undergone any modifications in recent years, with no outlet gates or associated structures reported. While it does not fall under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the dam's high hazard potential underscores the need for regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area. With its picturesque location in Mangum, Wiggins Lake Dam stands as a vital resource for irrigation and recreation, highlighting the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wiggins Lake Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the complexities of dam infrastructure and the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring. As a privately-owned entity with no state regulatory oversight, the dam presents challenges in terms of ensuring its safety and functionality. With its high hazard potential and proximity to the Pee Dee River, efforts to assess and mitigate risks associated with the dam are essential for safeguarding the local community and environment. Moving forward, continued vigilance and adherence to best practices in dam safety will be crucial in managing this vital water resource in Richmond County, North Carolina.

River Or Stream

Pee Dee River - Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

11.2

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

14
       
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.