Whitaker Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whitaker Lake Dam, located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes. The dam has a storage capacity of 27 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.3 acres.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition according to the most recent inspection in February 2021. The inspection frequency for this dam is every two years, with the last assessment conducted in accordance with state regulations. While the dam does not have any associated structures or locks, it plays a crucial role in managing the Silas Creek-Tr watershed and provides recreational opportunities for the local community.

With its strategic location and importance for both water resource management and recreational activities, Whitaker Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure in Forsyth County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and maintenance of dams like Whitaker Lake is essential for sustainable water management and environmental protection in the region.

Dam Length

190

River Or Stream

Silas Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.3

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

120

Nid Storage

27

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.