Benbow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Benbow Lake Dam, located in Worthville, North Carolina, was completed in 1963 and serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam has a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, with a length of 200 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 67 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7 acres and draining an area of 95 square miles. Despite being privately owned, the dam is inspected regularly, with the last assessment in 2013 rating its condition as satisfactory and its hazard potential as low.

The dam, situated on Polecat Creek-Tr, falls under the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. It does not have any associated locks or spillways and has not undergone any modifications since its completion. The surrounding area offers a serene environment for outdoor activities, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the peaceful setting and recreational opportunities provided by Benbow Lake Dam. With its stable condition and low hazard potential, the dam continues to be a safe and enjoyable destination for visitors seeking to connect with nature and explore the beauty of Guilford County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Polecat Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

95

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.