Lunsford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lunsford Dam, located in Caswell, North Carolina, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, providing a storage capacity of 14.4 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 11.2 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Hostler Br-Tr, is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement to maintain its fair condition.

With a high hazard potential, Lunsford Dam plays a critical role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding and providing water for various uses. The dam has a history of meeting safety guidelines and is subject to biennial inspections to assess its structural integrity. While the dam's primary purpose is for fire protection and stock, its presence also enhances the local ecosystem by creating a small fish pond. Lunsford Dam represents a vital water resource in the region, contributing to both environmental conservation and community safety.

As a significant structure in the region, Lunsford Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management and regulation. Its fair condition and consistent inspection schedule highlight the commitment to maintaining water infrastructure for the benefit of both wildlife and the local community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lunsford Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human intervention and natural systems, showcasing the delicate balance required to ensure the sustainability of water resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Hostler Br-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

14.4

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.