Lake Vista Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Durham, North Carolina, Lake Vista Dam, also known as Willowhaven Lake Dam #1, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1958 for recreational purposes along the Eno River-Tr.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 18 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area. The dam spans 375 feet in length and covers a surface area of 5 acres, while being regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and regular inspections, Lake Vista Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety. With a drainage area of 480 square miles and a maximum discharge of 20 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events. As a key feature in the local landscape, Lake Vista Dam serves as both a recreational destination and a critical infrastructure asset in North Carolina's water management system.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

375

River Or Stream

Eno River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

480

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.