Holyfield Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Holyfield Lake in Surry, North Carolina, is a privately owned reservoir with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam type is earth, with a hydraulic height of 26.8 feet and a structural height of 30.4 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 75 acres. It covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a drainage area of 680 acres, with a maximum discharge of 1136 cubic feet per second.
Despite being privately owned, Holyfield Lake is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets stringent inspection, permitting, and enforcement standards. The dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed as being in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in November 2014. The surrounding area, including the city of Burch, benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the lake, making it a valuable resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the region.
Overall, Holyfield Lake serves as a vital water resource for the community, offering opportunities for recreation while maintaining a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. With its picturesque location on Snow Creek, this reservoir contributes to the natural beauty of Surry County and provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of preserving and managing lakes like Holyfield becomes increasingly significant for ensuring sustainable water usage and environmental conservation in North Carolina.
Dam Length |
222 |
River Or Stream |
Snow Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
26.8 |
Drainage Area |
680 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
30.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
Ararat River At Ararat
|
138cfs |
Chestnut Creek At Galax
|
33cfs |
Little Yadkin River At Dalton
|
16cfs |
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.
Holyfield Lake