Jordan Lake: Biography of a Multi-Purpose North Carolina Reservoir 1945-2024 and Beyond

Abstract

In 1945, the last numbered hurricane in the United States caused significant devastation along the New Hope River in Central North Carolina, flooding and marooning the city of Fayetteville. In response, the decision was made to dam and flood the New Hope Valley, to create a multi- purpose reservoir called Jordan Lake. The project would not be without controversy however, as concerns arose that it would not fulfill its purpose, alongside complaints about the utilization of eminent domain to provide almost 50,000 acres of land needed. This paper tells the story of the lake, beginning with what was planned for it, and the criticisms from the public, with the subsequent responses from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Then it describes the situation since the reservoir pool was filled in 1982, and whether or not it met the expectations set initially, regarding wildlife habitat, flood management, recreational benefits and provision of drinking water. Costs and benefits will be assessed up to the present (2024). Finally, the last chapter forecasts the Lake’s future, as a major automotive firm begins to establish its manufacturing plant 10 miles away from Jordan Lake, using eminent domain to construct it and as major housing developments draw water from the lake.