Buffalo Millpond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Buffalo Millpond is a historic masonry dam located in North Carolina, specifically in Vance County.


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Summary

Completed in 1864, this dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, making it an essential water resource for the surrounding area. With a hydraulic height of 20.2 feet and a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet, Buffalo Millpond plays a significant role in managing water levels and ensuring a stable water supply for agricultural needs.

Owned privately, Buffalo Millpond is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam has a high hazard potential and undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, Buffalo Millpond is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in February 2020, demonstrating its resilience and reliability as a key component of the local water infrastructure. Additionally, the dam offers recreational opportunities and contributes to the overall ecosystem health of Buffalo Creek.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Buffalo Millpond. As a vital irrigation resource with a rich heritage dating back to the 19th century, this masonry dam represents a blend of practical utility and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location on Buffalo Creek and its role in water management, Buffalo Millpond stands as a testament to the enduring value of sustainable water infrastructure in supporting communities and ecosystems in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1864

River Or Stream

Buffalo Creek

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20.2

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

20.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.