Lake Wendell Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Andrew Acres Dam Mooneyham Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lake Wendell Dam, located in Archer Lodge, North Carolina, is a picturesque masonry dam built in 1900 along Buffalo Creek.
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Summary
Offering a serene setting for recreation, the dam stands at a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 8 feet, with a length of 130 feet. With a storage capacity of 560 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 100 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Despite its age, Lake Wendell Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. The dam has not undergone recent inspections, with the last inspection dating back to May 1976. While it is not regulated by the state, the dam is maintained by private owners and is inspected periodically to ensure its safety and functionality for visitors.
Visitors to Lake Wendell Dam can enjoy its tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a vital part of the local landscape and community, the dam continues to provide a peaceful retreat for outdoor recreation and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and protecting our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1900 |
Dam Length |
130 |
River Or Stream |
Buffalo Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Masonry |
Surface Area |
100 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
14080 |
Nid Storage |
560 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 Wendell Dam