Lake Wilson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Silver Lake Putney's Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Wilson, located in Wilson, North Carolina, is a vital water resource owned by the local government and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality.
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Summary
This Earth dam, completed in 1960, serves as a primary source for water supply, with a storage capacity of 998 acre-feet and a surface area of 81.2 acres. The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 19.7 feet, impounding water from the Toisnot Swamp.
With a drainage area of 25,344 acres and a maximum discharge of 2,229 cubic feet per second, Lake Wilson plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Despite being assessed as in fair condition with a high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its safety. The dam's emergency action plan is periodically reviewed and updated, reflecting a commitment to proactive risk management and public safety. Lake Wilson stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
431 |
River Or Stream |
Toisnot Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
81.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
25344 |
Nid Storage |
998 |
Structural Height |
19.7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
240cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Swift Creek At Hilliardston
|
858cfs |
Tar River At Tarboro
|
418cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
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.
Lake Wilson