Willis Lake Dam

Burke, North Carolina· Built 1955· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Willis Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length255 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage91 acre-ft
Normal Storage76 acre-ft
Drainage Area410 sq mi
Year Completed1955 (71 years old)
NID IDNC00094

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: September 7, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Robin Chapman

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Willis Lake Dam?

Willis 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 Willis Lake Dam?

Willis Lake Dam is owned by Robin Chapman (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Willis Lake Dam built?

Willis Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Willis Lake Dam?

Willis 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 Willis Lake Dam last inspected?

Willis Lake Dam was last inspected on September 7, 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.