Donald Cox Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Donald Cox Dam, located in Greensboro, North Carolina, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built for recreational purposes, the dam also provides fire protection and serves as a small fish pond, offering a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts. With a hydraulic height of 12.5 feet and a structural height of 15.1 feet, the dam stands as a key element in the local landscape.

Managed by private owners and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with the last inspection taking place in February 2020. The dam's primary purpose of recreation highlights its significance in providing leisure activities for the community.

Situated along a tributary to Big Alamance Creek, Donald Cox Dam not only contributes to the local ecosystem but also offers a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike. With a storage capacity of 13.2 million gallons and a surface area of 2 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the region's water needs. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Donald Cox Dam continues to be a valuable asset in the sustainable management of water in Guilford County.

Dam Length

265

River Or Stream

Trib To Big Alamance Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

12.5

Nid Storage

13.2

Structural Height

15.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.