Wilkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilkins Dam in Orange County, North Carolina is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Although specific details about the dam's design and dimensions are not provided, its hazard potential is categorized as high, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and the integrity of the dam. The dam is not rated in terms of its condition, but it is clear that it plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community.

Despite the lack of specific information about the dam's construction and storage capacity, Wilkins Dam is a significant feature in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty and potential risks associated with such structures. The dam's location and purpose make it a key asset for the state of North Carolina, with regulatory agencies like NCDEQ and DEMLR overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. While the dam's condition assessment is not rated, its hazard potential underscores the need for robust risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wilkins Dam serves as a focal point for exploring the intersection of human infrastructure and natural environments. Its recreational significance and high hazard potential make it a compelling subject for further study and analysis. The dam's role in the local landscape, combined with the oversight of state regulatory agencies, highlights the complex relationship between water management, public safety, and environmental stewardship. As a state-regulated structure with a high hazard potential, Wilkins Dam symbolizes both the benefits and challenges of harnessing water resources for recreational purposes in a changing climate.

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.