Buckhorn Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buckhorn Lake Dam, located in Lee County, North Carolina, was completed in 1915 and serves as a critical water resource for the region.


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Summary

Managed by a public utility, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 10 feet, providing essential water supply and recreational opportunities for the community. Situated on the Cape Fear River, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 4,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,760 acre-feet, supporting the needs of the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Buckhorn Lake Dam has been well-maintained with a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2016. With a low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is also regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, underscoring the commitment to maintaining its structural integrity and mitigating any potential risks. As a key component of the water infrastructure in the region, Buckhorn Lake Dam plays a vital role in water supply management and recreational activities, contributing to the overall well-being of the community.

In addition to its role in water resource management, Buckhorn Lake Dam offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With a surface area of 1,550 feet and a drainage area of 2,048,000 square feet, the dam provides a picturesque setting for activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. The dam's location in Lillington, North Carolina, combined with its proximity to the Cape Fear River, makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the region's waterways.

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

1550

River Or Stream

Cape Fear River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

2048000

Nid Storage

4000

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.