Vinson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vinson Lake Dam, located in Burlington, North Carolina, was completed in 1958 primarily for recreational purposes and water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam spans 285 feet in length, impounding the waters of Jordan Creek-Os within its 5-acre surface area.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Vinson Lake Dam has been classified with a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection conducted dates back to May 1976, indicating a need for updated assessments to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. With a drainage area of 666 acres and a maximum discharge of 36 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting the surrounding environment.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate sustainability will find Vinson Lake Dam an intriguing subject for further study, given its historical significance and potential impact on the local ecosystem. As efforts continue to modernize dam safety standards and emergency preparedness, this structure serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in managing water resources for the future.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

285

River Or Stream

Jordan Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

666

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

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.