Wood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wood Lake Dam in Worthville, North Carolina, is a private concrete structure built in 1930 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Situated on the Polecat Creek-Tr river, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, with a length of 328 feet. It has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in Guilford County.

The dam, owned privately, is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, its condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in November 2018. The dam is designed to withstand discharge rates of up to 83 cubic feet per second, serving as a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.

With its picturesque location and integral role in providing recreational opportunities, Wood Lake Dam is a significant landmark in Guilford County. Its historical significance, combined with its functionality for water storage and management, makes it a vital asset for both local residents and visitors who appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate in this beautiful part of North Carolina.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

328

River Or Stream

Polecat Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

800

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.