Piatt Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Piatt Lake Dam, located in Bethania, North Carolina, is a private earth dam built in 1960 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Situated on Muddy Creek, the dam has a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 144 acre-feet. The dam spans 1434 feet and covers an area of 11 acres, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Although Piatt Lake Dam is not state-regulated, it is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in November 2013, indicating a fair condition and low hazard potential. With a maximum discharge capacity of 188 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a vital recreational area in Forsyth County, attracting visitors seeking outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Despite its modest scale, the dam plays a significant role in enhancing the local ecosystem and providing a valuable recreational resource for the community.

Managed by private owners, Piatt Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible stewardship of water resources and environmental conservation. The dam's historical significance, coupled with its functional design and scenic surroundings, make it a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and sustainable recreation.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1434

River Or Stream

Muddy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.