Matthews Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Matthews Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 79 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 64 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Max Discharge | 132 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01188 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Lattie & Virginia Matthews
Private
Nearby Dams
Laurel Lake Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardMclamb Lake Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardHall Lake Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardJackson Lake Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardNewman Pond Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardWilliams Lake Dam Upper
Sampson, NC
Significant HazardSinclair Lake Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardEdwards Pond Dam
Sampson, NC
Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Matthews Lake Dam?
Matthews Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Matthews Lake Dam?
Matthews Lake Dam is owned by Lattie & Virginia Matthews (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Matthews Lake Dam built?
Matthews Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Matthews Lake Dam?
Matthews Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Matthews Lake Dam last inspected?
Matthews Lake Dam was last inspected on February 15, 2008. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.