Blanchard Lake Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Blanchard Lake Dam #1 in Harnett, North Carolina, serves as a vital water resource for the region, with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Completed in 1943, this private dam stands at a structural height of 50 feet and has a hydraulic height of 47 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 413 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 422 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 20 acres.
Despite its importance, Blanchard Lake Dam #1 poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, which conducts regular inspections to ensure its safety. With a drainage area of 454 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 50 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels in the Barbeque Swamp.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition of Blanchard Lake Dam #1 closely to prevent any potential risks or emergencies. With its location in the Wilmington District and its association with the Barbeque Swamp, this dam serves as a key infrastructure for water management in the region. By staying informed about its status and maintenance efforts, we can help ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water resource for years to come.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Barbeque Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
47 |
Drainage Area |
454 |
Nid Storage |
422 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little River At Manchester
|
161cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
6cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
314cfs |
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
175cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Blanchard Lake Dam #1