Cook Lake Dam

Third Fork Creek· Durham, North Carolina· Built 1960· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Cook Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 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 TypeEarth
Max Storage55 acre-ft
Normal Storage45 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area492 sq mi
Max Discharge99 cfs
Year Completed1960 (66 years old)
NID IDNC01042

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: March 1, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Samuel Noel

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cook Lake Dam?

Cook 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 Cook Lake Dam?

Cook Lake Dam is owned by Samuel Noel (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cook Lake Dam built?

Cook Lake 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 Cook Lake Dam?

Cook 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 Cook Lake Dam last inspected?

Cook Lake Dam was last inspected on March 1, 2022. 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.