Lake Wilson Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Wilson Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 431 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 998 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 487 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 81 acres |
| Drainage Area | 25,560 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,229 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00894 |
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 Wilson
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Wilson Country Club Dam
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High HazardSilver Lake Dam
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Significant HazardPutney'S Lake Dam
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Low HazardBone Lake Dam
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Low HazardFinch'S Millpond Dam
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Low HazardAdams Lake Dam
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Low HazardWiggins Millpond Dam
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Significant HazardTar River Reservoir Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Wilson Dam?
Lake Wilson 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 Wilson Dam?
Lake Wilson Dam is owned by City of Wilson (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Wilson Dam built?
Lake Wilson Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Wilson Dam?
Lake Wilson Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lake Wilson Dam last inspected?
Lake Wilson Dam was last inspected on March 2, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.