Willow Lake Dam

Big Willow Creek· Henderson, North Carolina· Built 1970· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Willow Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length365 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage120 acre-ft
Normal Storage108 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Drainage Area315 sq mi
Max Discharge0 cfs
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDNC00228

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: Yes
Last Inspection: January 6, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Willow Lake Home Owners Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Willow Lake Dam?

Willow 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 Willow Lake Dam?

Willow Lake Dam is owned by Willow Lake Home Owners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Willow Lake Dam built?

Willow Lake Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Willow Lake Dam?

Willow 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 Willow Lake Dam last inspected?

Willow Lake Dam was last inspected on January 6, 2023. 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.