Lake Brandt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Brandt Dam in Guilford, North Carolina, is a vital structure that serves multiple purposes, primarily for recreation and water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1960, this Earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a structural height of 39.4 feet, with a length of 2555 feet. The dam impounds the waters of Reedy Fork, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 10,131 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 18,391 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 817 acres.

Managed by the local government, Lake Brandt Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently rated in fair condition following its last inspection in April 2020. With a history of periodic inspections and an emergency action plan in place, Lake Brandt Dam remains a crucial infrastructure for the community, offering recreational opportunities and a reliable water supply source. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this dam in maintaining the balance between human needs and environmental sustainability in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

2555

River Or Stream

Reedy Fork

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

817

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

43776

Nid Storage

18391

Structural Height

39.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

39
       
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.