Lower Colonial Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lower Colonial Dam, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 12.9 feet and a structural height of 19.9 feet, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management. With a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Despite its age and lack of specific completion date, Lower Colonial Dam has been deemed in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in January 2021. With a storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam provides essential water storage for the surrounding community. Its proximity to the East Fork Deep River-Tr makes it a vital component of the local ecosystem and a key player in flood control measures.
As a significant landmark in Guilford County, Lower Colonial Dam not only contributes to the region's water resource management but also presents an important case study for climate enthusiasts and dam safety experts. With its high hazard potential and state-regulated status, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water-related risks.
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
East Fork Deep River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.9 |
Nid Storage |
64 |
Structural Height |
19.9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lower Colonial Dam