Buffalo Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Crystal Lake Dam Silver Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Buffalo Lake Dam, located in Manchester, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation along the Little Bridge Branch.
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Summary
Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a structural height of 44 feet, with a length of 2400 feet and a surface area of 65.4 acres. The dam has a high hazard potential and was last inspected in February 2021, with a fair condition assessment.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Buffalo Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 1974 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1932 acre-feet, serving as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors. Despite its age, the dam continues to be a vital resource for water-based activities in the area, attracting enthusiasts interested in both water resources and climate sustainability.
With its rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, Buffalo Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing water resources for recreational purposes. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, dams like Buffalo Lake play a crucial role in providing safe and enjoyable recreational opportunities while also ensuring public safety and environmental sustainability. As efforts to monitor and assess the condition of the dam continue, enthusiasts and stakeholders alike can appreciate the significance of this structure in the broader context of water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
River Or Stream |
Little Bridge Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
65.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
916 |
Nid Storage |
1974 |
Structural Height |
44 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
46 |
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 |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
74cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
175cfs |
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.
Buffalo Lake Dam