Kornbow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kornbow Lake Dam, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is a crucial water resource structure that serves as a primary source for water supply in the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1920, stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 236 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources for the region.

Despite its age, Kornbow Lake Dam has been regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2020. The dam's emergency action plan, last revised in July 2018, helps to mitigate risks and ensure preparedness in case of any unforeseen events. With a drainage area of 3073 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 590 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a critical role in flood control and water management along Little Cross Creek.

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Kornbow Lake Dam continues to be a key infrastructure for water supply and resource management in Cumberland County. Its strategic location and storied history make it a significant asset for the community, ensuring a reliable water source and effective flood control measures for the region. As climate change impacts water resources more significantly, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Kornbow Lake Dam are essential for sustainable water management practices and resilience against changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

770

River Or Stream

Little Cross Creek

Surface Area

47

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

3073

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

18.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.