Little River Dam
Key Takeaway
Little River Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1984 and is 42 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 | 1,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 18.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 8.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 550 acres |
| Drainage Area | 62,115 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 86,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1984 (42 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2010 |
| NID ID | NC05143 |
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
Nearby Dams
Infinity Road Raw Water Reservoir Dam
Durham, NC
Significant HazardSykes Lake Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardEden Lake Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardPoe Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardLake Michie Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardEno West Point Dam
Durham, NC
Significant HazardHock Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardOxford Commons Dam
Durham, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Little River Dam?
Little River 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 Little River Dam?
Little River 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 Little River Dam built?
Little River Dam was completed in 1984, making it 42 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 Little River Dam?
Little River 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 Little River Dam last inspected?
Little River Dam was last inspected on March 5, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.