White Oak Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buffalo Lake Dam Sparger Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
White Oak Lake Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure built in 1900 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
The dam is situated on the North Buffalo Creek-Tr and stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet, with a structural height of 21 feet and a length of 800 feet. It has a storage capacity of 332 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 120 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, White Oak Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in March 2020. The dam does not fall under state regulation or permitting, but it undergoes regular inspections. The surrounding area of Greensboro benefits from the water supply provided by the dam, highlighting its significance for both the local community and the ecosystem.
Overall, White Oak Lake Dam serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in Guilford County, supporting water supply needs while also presenting a low level of risk. As climate change continues to impact water resources, maintaining and monitoring the condition of structures like White Oak Lake Dam will be essential for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
800 |
River Or Stream |
North Buffalo Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
3814 |
Nid Storage |
332 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
White Oak Lake Dam