Winston Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the Winston Lake Dam stands as a vital structure for water supply purposes, serving the community since its completion in 1919.
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Summary
This concrete dam on Frazier Creek has a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 40 feet, with a storage capacity of 1368 acre-feet. The dam's normal storage level is at 1104 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 16.5 acres and draining a watershed area of 4102 acres.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources Dam Safety Program, the Winston Lake Dam has a high hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition. Despite being inspected regularly, the dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2016, indicating a need for updated emergency protocols. The dam's maintenance and risk management measures are critical to ensure the safety of nearby residents and the integrity of the water supply infrastructure.
With a history dating back over a century, the Winston Lake Dam serves as a historical landmark and a crucial component of the local water supply system. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Winston Lake become increasingly important to ensure the resilience of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate advocacy can appreciate the significance of the Winston Lake Dam in the context of sustainable water management and climate adaptation efforts.
Year Completed |
1919 |
Dam Length |
60 |
River Or Stream |
Frazier Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
16.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
4102 |
Nid Storage |
1368 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Roepke Dam