Hillsborough Water Supply Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Hillsborough Water Supply Dam, also known as the West Fork Eno Reservoir Dam, is a vital water supply infrastructure located in Orange County, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 2000, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 64.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 42.8 feet, impounding the waters of the West Fork Eno River to create a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 7,032 acre-feet. With a drainage area of 6,046 acres and a surface area of 271.5 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for the residents of Hillsborough and surrounding areas.

Managed by the local government, the Hillsborough Water Supply Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring its safe operation and maintenance. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety. In case of emergencies, there are protocols in place, although details regarding the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and risk assessment are not specified in the available data. Situated within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves as a key component in the water supply infrastructure of the region, highlighting its importance for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Overall, the Hillsborough Water Supply Dam stands as a critical piece of infrastructure in Orange County, North Carolina, providing essential water supply services to the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper management and maintenance of dams like this one are crucial for ensuring water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location on the West Fork Eno River, this dam plays a vital role in supporting the water needs of Hillsborough and surrounding areas, underscoring the importance of sustainable water resource management in the region.

Year Completed

2000

Dam Length

1699

River Or Stream

West Fork Eno River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

271.5

Hydraulic Height

42.8

Drainage Area

6046

Nid Storage

24061

Structural Height

64.8

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

65
       
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.