Lake Butner Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Butner Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. 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 | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 9.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 340 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18,350 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 38,000 cfs |
| NID ID | NC01008 |
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
NC Department of Agriculture
State Government
Nearby Dams
Nye #1 Dam
Granville, NC
High HazardLake Michie Dam
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High HazardHester Lake Dam #1
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Low HazardLake Rogers Dam
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High HazardNorwood Dam
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Significant HazardBrinkley Pond Dam
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High HazardMangum Pond Dam
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Low HazardLittle River Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Butner Dam?
Lake Butner 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 Lake Butner Dam?
Lake Butner Dam is owned by NC Department of Agriculture (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Butner Dam?
Lake Butner Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lake Butner Dam last inspected?
Lake Butner Dam was last inspected on February 28, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.