Back Creek Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Back Creek Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1991 and is 35 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 | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 646 acres |
| Drainage Area | 42,240 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 811,292 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1991 (35 years old) |
| NID ID | NC04873 |
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 Graham
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Graham City Lake Dam #1
Alamance, NC
Low HazardBurke Dam
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Low HazardLatham Lake Dam
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Low HazardMartin Pond Dam
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Low HazardWilliam L. Martin Dam
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High HazardPowell Dam
Alamance, NC
Low HazardForest Lake Dam
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High HazardMeadowood Lake Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Back Creek Reservoir Dam?
Back Creek Reservoir 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 Back Creek Reservoir Dam?
Back Creek Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Graham (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Back Creek Reservoir Dam built?
Back Creek Reservoir Dam was completed in 1991, making it 35 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 Back Creek Reservoir Dam?
Back Creek Reservoir 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 Back Creek Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Back Creek Reservoir Dam was last inspected on February 21, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.