Adams Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Adams Lake Dam, located in Guilford County, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1955, the dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. It has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 72 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 99 cubic feet per second. The dam is situated on the Bull Run Creek-Tr and serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Despite its high hazard potential, Adams Lake Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in March 2020. The dam is state regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, its associated structures are minimal, reflecting its straightforward design focused on recreational activities. With its picturesque location and important role in water management for the area, Adams Lake Dam continues to be a significant landmark for both locals and visitors alike.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Bull Run Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

1000

Nid Storage

96

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.