Atkins Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Atkins Dam, located in Harnett County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam on Neals Creek Trib stands at a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, with a length of 400 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 10.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities.
Despite its recreational appeal, Atkins Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of February 2021. The dam is subject to regular inspections and has an inspection frequency of every two years to ensure public safety. While the dam lacks certain emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP), it remains a notable feature in the Wilmington District and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources for both recreation and safety purposes.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Atkins Dam serve as vital components in water management and conservation efforts. With its location in a region prone to extreme weather events, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight play a crucial role in mitigating potential risks and ensuring the sustainability of water resources for future generations. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike should remain vigilant in monitoring and supporting initiatives that prioritize the safety and preservation of such critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
Neals Creek Trib |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
10.4 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Atkins Dam
Bartley Holleman Road 3519-3621, New Hill