Silver Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Wilson Bone Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Wilson, North Carolina, Silver Lake is a private reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1785, this concrete dam is situated on the Toisnot Swamp, offering a surface area of 74 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 538 acre-feet. With a structural height of 13.1 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, Silver Lake boasts a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of its last inspection in September 2018.
Despite not being state-regulated, Silver Lake is equipped with state inspection mechanisms to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's normal storage capacity is 325 acre-feet, making it a valuable water resource for the local community and a popular spot for outdoor activities. With its historical significance dating back over two centuries, Silver Lake continues to serve as a recreational haven for residents and visitors alike, offering a tranquil retreat surrounded by the natural beauty of Wilson, North Carolina.
As a key component of the Wilmington District, Silver Lake stands as a testament to early engineering feats and the enduring legacy of water resource management in the region. Its serene waters and picturesque setting make it a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship. Whether for leisurely boating or peaceful contemplation by the shore, Silver Lake remains a vital part of the local landscape, inviting all to experience the timeless allure of this historic reservoir.
Year Completed |
1785 |
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Toisnot Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
74 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
538 |
Structural Height |
13.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
240cfs |
Swift Creek At Hilliardston
|
858cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Tar River At Tarboro
|
418cfs |
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.
Silver Lake