Lake Herman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Herman Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational hotspot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Constructed in 1920, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a normal storage of 72 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 12 acres and is situated along the Reedy Fork - Tr river system.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Lake Herman Dam possesses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. The dam's last inspection in April 2020 revealed a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety. With a drainage area of 685 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 330 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region.

As a key component of the local infrastructure, Lake Herman Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital resource for water supply and environmental conservation. Its strategic location in Ossipee, along with its historical significance and functional design, make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable management of natural resources in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

375

River Or Stream

Reedy Fork - Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

685

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.