Buffalo Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Buffalo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 2,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 65 acres |
| Drainage Area | 916 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 166 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00011 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Buffalo Lakes Homeowners Association
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buffalo Lake Dam?
Buffalo Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Buffalo Lake Dam?
Buffalo Lake Dam is owned by Buffalo Lakes Homeowners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Buffalo Lake Dam built?
Buffalo Lake Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Buffalo Lake Dam?
Buffalo Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Buffalo Lake Dam last inspected?
Buffalo Lake Dam was last inspected on January 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.