Pringle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pringle Dam, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam on the South Buffalo Creek-Tr.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities. Standing at a structural height of 16.4 feet with a hydraulic height of 12.7 feet, Pringle Dam boasts a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet, making it a significant feature in the local landscape.

Despite its recreational value, Pringle Dam's condition assessment reveals a concerning outlook, with a poor rating and a high hazard potential. The dam is state-regulated and subject to regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. The most recent inspection in February 2021 highlighted the need for further attention and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts should take note of Pringle Dam's importance in the local ecosystem and recreational activities, while also recognizing the critical need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. As a key feature in the area's water management infrastructure, ensuring the safety and resilience of Pringle Dam is essential for both environmental sustainability and public safety.

Dam Length

358

River Or Stream

South Buffalo Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

12.7

Nid Storage

20

Structural Height

16.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.