Barnes Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Heriot Wilkins Dam Smith Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Barnes Lake Dam, located in Linden, North Carolina, was completed in 1969 and serves as a recreational site for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 17 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam offers opportunities for water-based activities in a picturesque setting along the Lower Little River-Os.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Barnes Lake Dam is subject to state inspections to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, and it has not been modified since its completion. With a spillway width and number of locks both recorded as zero, the dam's primary purpose remains focused on recreation, providing a tranquil escape for visitors to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty and water resources.
Overall, Barnes Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible private ownership and maintenance, offering a safe and enjoyable recreational space for locals and visitors alike. Its serene waters and picturesque location make it a popular destination for those looking to appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate in a peaceful setting.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
520 |
River Or Stream |
Lower Little River-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
82 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Barnes Lake Dam