Lake Desmond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Desmond Dam, located in High Rock, North Carolina, is a key water resource managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 22 feet and boasts a hydraulic height of 18 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 18.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.8 acres, serving as a vital part of the Ellison Creek-Tr watershed.

With a significant hazard potential and being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, Lake Desmond Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and integrity. The last inspection took place in November 2020, and the dam is under state jurisdiction with no regulatory agency overseeing its operations. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential water storage for the local community.

Water and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Lake Desmond Dam not only for its functional importance but also for its recreational value. Situated in a picturesque setting in Forsyth County, this dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities and serves as a hub for water-related events in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and proper management of Lake Desmond Dam will be crucial in ensuring its continued effectiveness in water storage and recreation.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Ellison Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.8

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

47

Nid Storage

18.5

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.