Salem Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Winston Lake Dam Wooten Lake
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Salem Lake Dam, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a key structure along Salem Creek that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water supply.
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Summary
Completed in 2012, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 37 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23.6 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 3,206 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 9,230 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 297.5 acres and drains an area of 16,724 acres.
The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections, with the most recent assessment conducted in February 2021, deeming its condition as fair with a high hazard potential. While there are no associated structures or locks, Salem Lake Dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 35,112 cubic feet per second. Its Emergency Action Plan was last revised in 2012, and the dam meets state permitting and enforcement requirements.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Salem Lake Dam to be a significant part of the local water infrastructure, providing both recreational opportunities and water supply for the community. Its construction and management reflect the commitment to safety and regulatory compliance, ensuring the protection of downstream areas in the event of a dam failure. Located in a picturesque setting, Salem Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in Forsyth County, North Carolina.
Year Completed |
2012 |
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Salem Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
297.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
23.6 |
Drainage Area |
16724 |
Nid Storage |
9230 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
37 |
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.
Salem Lake Dam