Lakota Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lakota Farm Dam, nestled in Mcleansville, North Carolina, serves as a crucial water resource for irrigation purposes along the North Buffalo Creek-Tr.


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Summary

With a structural height of 29.4 feet and a hydraulic height of 22.4 feet, this earth dam stands as a vital component in managing water flow and storage in the region. The dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 57 acre-feet spread over a surface area of 6.4 acres.

Despite its importance, Lakota Farm Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The last inspection in March 2021 revealed concerning issues, prompting a biennial inspection frequency to monitor its structural integrity closely. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unclear, raising concerns about the preparedness for potential emergencies or disasters. As a private-owned structure regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, there is a pressing need for proactive maintenance and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the safety and reliability of this essential water resource infrastructure.

In light of its significance for irrigation and water management in Guilford County, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize the rehabilitation and upkeep of Lakota Farm Dam. Collaborative efforts between the private owner, state regulatory agencies, and local communities are essential to address the dam's deteriorating condition and mitigate potential risks to downstream areas. By implementing timely maintenance, emergency preparedness measures, and risk management strategies, the longevity and effectiveness of Lakota Farm Dam can be secured for the benefit of all water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

North Buffalo Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.4

Hydraulic Height

22.4

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

29.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

29
       
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.