Buckhorn Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hinnants Lake Dam Bill Ellis Lagoon
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buckhorn Lake in Wilson, North Carolina, is a vital water supply resource managed by the local government.
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Summary
Situated on Contentnea Creek-Tr, the dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 15 feet. The primary purpose of this earth-type dam is water supply, serving the community's needs while also being regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Buckhorn Lake continues to provide essential water resources to the region. The dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in February 2021. While there have been no recent modifications or upgrades, the dam remains a crucial piece of infrastructure for ensuring water availability and safety in Wilson, North Carolina. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, Buckhorn Lake presents a fascinating case study in sustainable water management and regulatory oversight.
Dam Length |
600 |
River Or Stream |
Contentnea Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Neuse River Near Clayton
|
519cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
89cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
895cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
192cfs |
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.
Buckhorn Lake