Lake Raleigh Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Raleigh Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 762 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 560 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 88 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7,689 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13,990 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2001 |
| NID ID | NC00863 |
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
State of North Carolina, State Property Office
State Government
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Raleigh Dam?
Lake Raleigh 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 Raleigh Dam?
Lake Raleigh Dam is owned by State of North Carolina, State Property Office (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Raleigh Dam built?
Lake Raleigh Dam was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Raleigh Dam?
Lake Raleigh Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lake Raleigh Dam last inspected?
Lake Raleigh Dam was last inspected on February 15, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.