Wiggins Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Wiggins Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 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 | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 360 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,112 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 825 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1953 (73 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00818 |
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
Upper Coastal Plain Research Station
State Government
Nearby Dams
Nobles Millpond Dam
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Low HazardWeeks Lake Dam
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Significant HazardRocky Mount Millpond Dam
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Significant HazardBatts Pond Dam
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Low HazardSteve Harper Lagoon Dam
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Significant HazardBraswell Lake Dam
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wiggins Lake Dam?
Wiggins Lake 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 Wiggins Lake Dam?
Wiggins Lake Dam is owned by Upper Coastal Plain Research Station (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wiggins Lake Dam built?
Wiggins Lake Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Wiggins Lake Dam?
Wiggins Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Wiggins Lake Dam last inspected?
Wiggins Lake Dam was last inspected on November 24, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.