Blackburn Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 23, 2026
Blackburn Lake Dam, located in Hillsborough, North Carolina, serves as a vital water resource for the area, with a primary purpose of recreation.
Summary
Completed in 1952, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet and has a length of 200 feet. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, it provides essential water supply for the surrounding community and offers a surface area of 8 acres for recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
Managed by a private owner, Blackburn Lake Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in December 2020. With regular state inspections and enforcement measures in place, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts along the Eno River-Tr, benefiting both the environment and local residents.
As a key feature in the landscape of Orange County, Blackburn Lake Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. With its historic significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems, highlighting the need for responsible stewardship of our water resources in the midst of evolving environmental challenges.
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°F
mph
Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Eno River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
166 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Eno River At Hillsborough
|
27cfs |
Cane Creek Near Orange Grove
|
0cfs |
Morgan Creek Near White Cross
|
5cfs |
Morgan Creek Near Chapel Hill
|
71cfs |
Eno River Near Durham
|
34cfs |
Haw River At Haw River
|
430cfs |
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.
Blackburn Lake Dam