Kimesville Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kimesville Lake Dam, located in Guilford County, North Carolina, is a privately owned stone dam built in 1812 on the South Prong Stinking Quarter stream.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, this historic dam stands at 200 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in satisfactory condition and has a low hazard potential, making it a reliable structure for water resource management in the region.

The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its versatile use beyond flood control or water supply. It boasts a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 11,456 acres. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 248 cubic feet per second, ensuring effective water flow management in times of high flow. With no associated locks and a last inspection date in January 2016, Kimesville Lake Dam remains a key infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor and support in the ongoing efforts to maintain water security in the region.

As a historic stone dam with significant storage and discharge capabilities, Kimesville Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management in Guilford County. While it is privately owned and not regulated by the state, the dam's satisfactory condition and low hazard potential underscore its importance in maintaining water security for the local community. With a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, this dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of effective water resource infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and growing water demand.

Year Completed

1812

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

South Prong Stinking Quarter

Primary Dam Type

Stone

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

11456

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.