Lake Townsend Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lake Townsend Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreation and water supply purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1969, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 30.9 feet and a structural height of 40.9 feet, impounding the waters of the Reedy Fork River to create a surface area of 1635 acres. With a normal storage capacity of 20274 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 38285 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the region.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2021, Lake Townsend Dam is categorized with a high hazard potential, reflecting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. The dam has a drainage area of 65972 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 86100 cubic feet per second, highlighting its significance in flood control and water management. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to uphold safety standards and operational integrity.
With its primary purpose being recreation, Lake Townsend Dam serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Situated in Ossipee, the dam offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities, contributing to the local economy and community well-being. As a key component of the water infrastructure in Guilford County, Lake Townsend Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and recreational enjoyment in the region.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1420 |
River Or Stream |
Reedy Fork |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1635 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.9 |
Drainage Area |
65972 |
Nid Storage |
38285 |
Structural Height |
40.9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Lake Townsend Dam
Murchie Street Park
Craft Park
O Henry Oaks Park
Keeley Park
Ceaser Park