Gourley Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bernard Dam Grubb Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Gourley Lake Dam, located in Blanch, North Carolina, is a private earth dam constructed in 1978 by the USDA NRCS.
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Summary
The dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 19.5 feet, and serves as a vital structure along the Dan River-Tr. Its primary purpose is classified as "Other", providing storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 3 acres. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam has been inspected and deemed to have a low hazard potential.
With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Gourley Lake Dam poses a manageable level of risk to the surrounding area. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with no locks associated. While its condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated", the last inspection in 2015 revealed no significant concerns. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are unspecified, highlighting potential areas for improvement in emergency preparedness and response.
Overall, Gourley Lake Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in Caswell County, North Carolina. Its construction by the USDA NRCS and its low hazard potential make it an essential component of the local water system. Continued monitoring and potential enhancements in risk management and emergency preparedness can further ensure the safety and effectiveness of this important dam structure for years to come.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
155 |
River Or Stream |
Dan River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.5 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
979cfs |
Hyco Creek Near Leasburg
|
5cfs |
Sandy River Near Danville
|
38cfs |
Dan River At Paces
|
1160cfs |
Hyco R Bl Abay D Nr Mcgehees Mill
|
1cfs |
Hyco River Near Denniston
|
143cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Gourley Lake Dam