Pine Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pine Lake Dam, located in Guilford County, North Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a hydraulic height of 10.3 feet and a structural height of 14.6 feet, this dam creates a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 6 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 9 acre-feet. The dam spans 192 feet in length and covers a surface area of 1.5 acres, drawing water from the South Buffalo Creek-Tr.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Pine Lake Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety. The last inspection was conducted in November 2019, with a frequency of every two years. While there are no associated structures or outlet gates, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans to address potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of a breach.

With its picturesque location in Greensboro and vital role in providing recreational opportunities, Pine Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and safety protocols in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with dam failure. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the intricate balance between human enjoyment and ecological responsibility that Pine Lake Dam represents in its design and operation.

Dam Length

192

River Or Stream

South Buffalo Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Hydraulic Height

10.3

Drainage Area

25

Nid Storage

9

Structural Height

14.6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.