Sabrina Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sabrina Lake Dam, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The dam, with a structural height of 18 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 34.8 acre-feet. The dam spans 260 feet in length and covers a surface area of 5.8 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its recreational appeal, Sabrina Lake Dam presents a high hazard potential and has an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of November 2019. The dam has not been modified in recent years and does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation or permitting. Inspections are conducted regularly, with the last inspection taking place in November 2019. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, it is important for stakeholders to stay informed about potential risks associated with the structure.

Given its unique characteristics and location within the South Fork Muddy Creek watershed, Sabrina Lake Dam serves as both a recreational destination and a critical component of the local water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential for dam owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize the maintenance and safety of structures like Sabrina Lake Dam to ensure the long-term protection of communities and ecosystems downstream.

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

South Fork Muddy Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.8

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

42

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.