Laurel Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Lake, also known as Horne Dam, is a picturesque water resource located in Watauga, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned privately, this recreational lake was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1978. With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 29.4 feet and a structural height of 32.5 feet, providing a serene oasis for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Situated on the North Fork Laurel Creek, Laurel Lake covers a surface area of 2 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with an outlet gate also uncontrolled. Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Laurel Lake indicates a moderate risk level (3), suggesting a need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this beloved recreational resource.

With its tranquil setting and recreational offerings, Laurel Lake is a hidden gem in North Carolina, attracting visitors seeking outdoor adventures and natural beauty. As one of the few privately owned water resources in the area, Laurel Lake provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature while appreciating the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

245

River Or Stream

North Fork Laurel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

29.4

Drainage Area

21

Nid Storage

28

Structural Height

32.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.