Lake Michie Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Michie Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 920 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 18.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 460 acres |
| Drainage Area | 106,880 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 47,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01027 |
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 Durham Department of Water Management
Local Government
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Michie Dam?
Lake Michie 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 Lake Michie Dam?
Lake Michie Dam is owned by City of Durham Department of Water Management (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Michie Dam built?
Lake Michie Dam was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Lake Michie Dam?
Lake Michie Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lake Michie Dam last inspected?
Lake Michie Dam was last inspected on October 28, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.