Perry Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Perry Lake Dam, located in Smithfield, North Carolina, was completed in 1914 and stands at a structural height of 16 feet with a length of 345 feet.


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Summary

The dam is primarily used for recreational purposes and holds a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet, providing a serene surface area of 4 acres along Buffalo Creek. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state inspections to ensure its safety and has been assessed as being in satisfactory condition with a low hazard potential.

With its masonry construction and historical significance, Perry Lake Dam offers a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. The dam's location within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds to its appeal, while the presence of Congressman George Holding as the representative for the area underscores its importance in local governance. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines ensure that it remains a reliable and well-maintained structure for both recreational enjoyment and environmental preservation.

For those interested in the intersection of water management and recreational activities, Perry Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity to appreciate the balance between human infrastructure and natural landscapes. Its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition offer reassurance to visitors and nearby residents, while its role in providing a recreational outlet underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management. As one of the many dams dotting the North Carolina landscape, Perry Lake Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature in the face of changing climates and evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

345

River Or Stream

Buffalo Creek

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

165

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.