House-Autry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

House-Autry Dam, located in Sampson, North Carolina, along the Seven Mile Swamp, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at 9 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, and was completed in 1850. With a storage capacity of 307.5 acre-feet and a surface area of 41 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential and a condition assessment that remains unrated, the House-Autry Dam has been inspected regularly, with the most recent inspection taking place in September 2018. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in February 2002, and there have been no reported incidents of non-compliance with state regulations. The dam's close proximity to Wilmington District makes it an important water resource feature in the region, attracting visitors who enjoy the recreational opportunities it provides along the Seven Mile Swamp.

Overall, House-Autry Dam stands as a historic landmark that not only offers recreational activities but also serves as a testament to the engineering marvels of the past. Its strategic location in Sampson, North Carolina, highlights its importance in water management and climate resilience efforts within the region. Visitors and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the beauty and functionality of this structure while also recognizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term safety and sustainability.

Year Completed

1850

Dam Length

887.5

River Or Stream

Seven Mile Swamp

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

11648

Nid Storage

307.5

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.