Piedmont Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Piedmont Lake Dam, located in Guilford County, North Carolina, is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Tributary East Fork Deep River.


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Summary

Completed in 1993, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 26.3 feet, with a length of 460 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 1200 square miles.

The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a fair condition assessment as of April 2020. While the dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not clearly defined in the data. Despite these challenges, Piedmont Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding communities, making it an essential component of water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Piedmont Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and risk assessment. Its location, design, and purpose provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between water management, environmental protection, and public safety. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's integrity and effectiveness, it remains a symbol of resilience and adaptation in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

460

River Or Stream

Trib. East Fork Deep River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

1200

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

26.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.