Ricks Lake Dam

Swift Creek· Nash, North Carolina· Built 1963· Earth·
Significant Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Ricks Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length544 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage55 acre-ft
Normal Storage43 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge73 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDNC00921

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: April 25, 2013
State Regulated: No

Ownership

T E Ricks

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ricks Lake Dam?

Ricks 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 Ricks Lake Dam?

Ricks Lake Dam is owned by T E Ricks (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ricks Lake Dam built?

Ricks Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Ricks Lake Dam?

Ricks Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Ricks Lake Dam last inspected?

Ricks Lake Dam was last inspected on April 25, 2013. 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.