Hamilton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hamilton Lake Dam in Chalebeate Springs, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated on UT Kenneth Creek, this dam has a structural height of 9 feet and a length of 210 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Hamilton Lake Dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its picturesque location and recreational opportunities. With a surface area of 3.9 acres and a drainage area of 63 square miles, the dam offers a serene environment for activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, its last inspection in February 2021 indicates that it is being actively monitored for any potential risks or issues.

Visitors to Hamilton Lake Dam can appreciate its natural beauty while also being reassured by the ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight in place. As climate change impacts water resources across the country, the importance of well-maintained dams like Hamilton Lake Dam becomes increasingly evident. With a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, this dam serves as a valuable resource for both recreation and water management in Harnett County, North Carolina.

Dam Length

210

River Or Stream

UT Kenneth Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.9

Drainage Area

63

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

9
       
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.