Lake Townsend Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Townsend Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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 | 1,420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 38.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,635 acres |
| Drainage Area | 65,972 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 86,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00687 |
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
City of Greensboro
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Lake Townsend Wtp Dam #1
Guilford, NC
Low HazardProctor & Gamble CO South Lake Dam
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Low HazardLake Herman Dam
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High HazardHardys Millpond Dam
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Low HazardWysong Dam
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Low HazardGreen Dam
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High HazardBrooks Landing Dam
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Low HazardBrooks Lake Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Townsend Dam?
Lake Townsend 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 Townsend Dam?
Lake Townsend Dam is owned by City of Greensboro (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Townsend Dam built?
Lake Townsend Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Lake Townsend Dam?
Lake Townsend 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 Townsend Dam last inspected?
Lake Townsend Dam was last inspected on January 26, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.