Benton Lake Dam, located in Forsyth, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, with a length of 110 feet. It holds a normal storage capacity of 10.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.5 acres. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted on November 12, 2020, revealing a significant hazard potential.
Situated along the Elliston Creek-Tr river system, Benton Lake Dam is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, indicating a simpler design compared to larger hydrological structures. While the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," its hazard potential underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of those downstream.
With its unique location and recreational focus, Benton Lake Dam offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of North Carolina's water resources. As climate change continues to impact hydrological systems, the importance of maintaining and regulating dams like Benton Lake becomes increasingly vital to safeguarding both the environment and local communities against potential risks and hazards.
Dam Length |
110 |
River Or Stream |
Elliston Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
13 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Yadkin River At Enon
|
1080cfs |
Little Yadkin River At Dalton
|
16cfs |
Yadkin River At Yadkin College
|
1340cfs |
Hunting Creek Near Harmony
|
93cfs |
South Yadkin River Near Mocksville
|
230cfs |
Abbotts Creek At Lexington
|
31cfs |