Friendly Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Friendly Lake Dam, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure built in 1959 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam spans 300 feet in length and has a hydraulic height of 12.7 feet, providing a picturesque setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam holds a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 41 acre-feet, serving as a small fish pond and fire protection resource for the surrounding area.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Friendly Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, requiring regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's association with Horsepen Creek-Tr contributes to a drainage area of 180 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 248 cubic feet per second. While the dam lacks a designated spillway type or outlet gates, its scenic location and surface area of 8 acres make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Guilford County. With its historical significance and recreational value, Friendly Lake Dam remains a vital water resource for the community, showcasing the importance of sustainable dam management practices in safeguarding our environment and water supply.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
300 |
River Or Stream |
Horsepen Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.7 |
Drainage Area |
180 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
18.2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Friendly Lake Dam