J.C. Howard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

J.C.


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Summary

Howard Dam is a privately owned structure located in Lenoir, North Carolina, along the Tr To Trent River. Completed in 1994, this earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 33 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, with a length of 3333 feet. The dam provides irrigation water storage with a capacity of 30.12 acre-feet and also supports recreational activities in the area.

Despite its significant contribution to water resource management, J.C. Howard Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, with a fair condition assessment as of December 2020. The dam is regularly inspected by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, with inspection frequency set at every two years. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparedness are not specified in the data, indicating potential areas for further improvement and risk mitigation strategies.

Situated within the Wilmington District, J.C. Howard Dam plays a crucial role in water supply and recreation in the region. Its location on Davis Mill Rd in Lenoir, North Carolina, underscores its importance in supporting agricultural irrigation and local community activities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and maintenance of dams like J.C. Howard is essential for sustainable water management and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

3333

River Or Stream

Tr To Trent River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.38

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

292.9

Nid Storage

30.12

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.