Silver Lake Dam

Toisnot Swamp· Wilson, North Carolina· Built 1785· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Silver Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1785 and is 241 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage538 acre-ft
Normal Storage325 acre-ft
Surface Area74 acres
Year Completed1785 (241 years old)
NID IDNC00896

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: November 19, 2021
State Regulated: No

Ownership

SL Dam LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Silver Lake Dam?

Silver Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Silver Lake Dam?

Silver Lake Dam is owned by SL Dam LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Silver Lake Dam built?

Silver Lake Dam was completed in 1785, making it 241 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 Silver Lake Dam?

Silver 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 Silver Lake Dam last inspected?

Silver Lake Dam was last inspected on November 19, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.