Green Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Green Lake Dam, located in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 52 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 572 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 150 acres, offering a serene spot for water enthusiasts and outdoor lovers to enjoy.

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Green Lake Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in fair condition, last assessed in June 2017. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable recreational space for locals and visitors alike, contributing to the conservation and preservation of water resources in the area.

With its peaceful surroundings and recreational opportunities, Green Lake Dam on the Cape Fear River-Os is a vital piece of infrastructure that not only enhances the local ecosystem but also serves as a valuable water resource for the community. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, understanding the importance of structures like Green Lake Dam in maintaining a balance between conservation and recreation is crucial for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

8448

River Or Stream

Cape Fear River-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

150

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

572

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

52
       
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.