Blanchard Lake Dam #2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Blanchard Lake Dam #2, located in Harnett, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at 21 feet tall and spans 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 86 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's condition is assessed as poor, with a high hazard potential, making it a critical infrastructure in need of attention.
The dam is situated along the Barbeque Swamp, managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, and subject to state regulation and inspection. Its location in a high-risk zone highlights the importance of regular maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With a history of enforcement actions and a recent inspection in September 2020, the dam's integrity and emergency preparedness remain key concerns for stakeholders and officials.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intriguing blend of recreational and practical functions, coupled with the dam's deteriorating condition and high hazard potential, presents a compelling case for further exploration and advocacy. Understanding the complexities of managing aging infrastructure like Blanchard Lake Dam #2 in the face of changing environmental conditions is crucial for safeguarding water resources and promoting sustainable development in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Barbeque Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.8 |
Nid Storage |
86 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
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 #2