Buffalo Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: White Oak Lake Dam Sparger Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Buffalo Lake Dam, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1922, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, with a length of 960 feet. It has a storage capacity of 868 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 76 acres, drawing water from the North Buffalo Creek-Tr.
Despite its age, the dam has been regularly inspected and maintained by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. The most recent assessment in January 2021 rated its condition as fair, with a high hazard potential due to its location and storage capacity. While the dam meets state regulatory standards, its emergency action plan and risk management measures remain unspecified, leaving room for improvement in emergency preparedness.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts following the Buffalo Lake Dam will be interested in its historical significance as a water supply infrastructure in Guilford County. With its high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, there is a need for continued monitoring and potential enhancements to its emergency preparedness protocols. As a key component of the local water supply system, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and environmental sustainability in the region, making it a focal point for ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
960 |
River Or Stream |
North Buffalo Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
76 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
2368 |
Nid Storage |
868 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Buffalo Lake Dam