Lower Zoo Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Zoo Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 860 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 137 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 65 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | NC05150 |
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
NC Zoological Authority
State Government
Nearby Dams
African Plains Dam
Randolph, NC
Low HazardUpper Zoo Dam
Randolph, NC
Low HazardShaw-Hudson Lake Dam
Randolph, NC
High HazardGoss Lake Dam
Randolph, NC
Low HazardFarlow Lake Dam
Randolph, NC
High HazardKing Dam
Randolph, NC
High HazardPinewood Country Club Dam
Randolph, NC
High HazardScott Dam
Randolph, NC
Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Zoo Dam?
Lower Zoo 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 Lower Zoo Dam?
Lower Zoo Dam is owned by NC Zoological Authority (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Zoo Dam built?
Lower Zoo Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Lower Zoo Dam?
Lower Zoo Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Lower Zoo Dam last inspected?
Lower Zoo Dam was last inspected on February 23, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.