Lake Higgins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Higgins Dam, located in Guilford County, North Carolina, is a local government-owned structure that plays a vital role in both recreation and water supply.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, this earthen dam stands at a structural height of 34.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32.1 feet. With a capacity of 5,115 acre-feet, the dam provides a surface area of 226 acres and serves a drainage area of 7,129 acres.

The dam, situated on Brush Creek, is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its compliance with state regulations for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition and undergoes inspections every two years to maintain safety standards. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities and serves as a vital water resource for the community.

Lake Higgins Dam's significance extends beyond its structural attributes, as it contributes to the overall environmental health and sustainability of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in providing recreational activities and supporting water supply underscores the importance of responsible management and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1100

River Or Stream

Brush Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

226

Hydraulic Height

32.1

Drainage Area

7129

Nid Storage

5115

Structural Height

34.8

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.