Feature photo of Crystal Lake by Daniel Gwyn.
Moore County leaders are exploring long-term water supply options as growth continues across the Sandhills, with renewed focus on Crystal Lake as a potential county-owned reservoir.
A study by LKC Engineering outlines a two-phase plan that could cost more than $175 million and provide up to 5.5 million gallons of water per day.
Planning for Growth Beyond 2029
County officials say Moore County currently has adequate water supply, but future demand could outpace availability as early as 2029 if no new source is developed.
The plan includes repairing the Crystal Lake dam, which was damaged during flooding from Tropical Storm Chantal, and constructing new treatment and pumping infrastructure.
County leaders stress that no final decision has been made and that a 10 percent design study will help determine feasibility and cost before moving forward.