Vaughan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Vaughan Dam, located in Wake, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, it spans 360 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Buckhorn Creek-Tr, managed by the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, and falls under the oversight of NC state inspections.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Vaughan Dam is in fair condition as of its last assessment in January 2018. With a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 10 acres and serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts. While it does not require state permitting, the dam undergoes regular state inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Overall, Vaughan Dam offers a picturesque location for recreation in Wake, North Carolina, attracting visitors to its tranquil waters and surrounding natural beauty. Its moderate size and low hazard potential make it a popular destination for outdoor activities, while its regular maintenance and inspection ensure the safety of both the dam and its visitors. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Vaughan Dam represents a unique blend of leisure and environmental stewardship in the heart of North Carolina.

Dam Length

360

River Or Stream

Buckhorn Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.