Willow Run Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Run Farm Dam, also known as Laurel Lane Farm Dam, is a private dam located in Henderson, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Horse Shoe.


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Summary

Built in 1978, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes and is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. With a hydraulic height of 13.4 feet and a structural height of 17 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 14 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.3 acres.

Situated along the French Broad River-Tr, Willow Run Farm Dam has a significant hazard potential but was deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in April 2014. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are currently unknown, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. While the dam does not have any associated locks or spillways, its location and design make it a valuable asset for local recreation and water resource management in the area.

As a private dam, Willow Run Farm Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the community while also serving as a potential water storage and management resource. With its picturesque setting and close proximity to the French Broad River, the dam represents a unique intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural waterways, showcasing the importance of sustainable dam operation and maintenance practices in safeguarding both public safety and environmental health.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

French Broad River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.3

Hydraulic Height

13.4

Drainage Area

16

Nid Storage

14

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.