Clapp Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Siler City, North Carolina, Clapp Lake Dam is a privately owned structure built in 1953 primarily for recreational purposes, with secondary use for water supply.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. The dam spans 510 feet in length and covers a surface area of 18 acres, serving the surrounding community for over half a century.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Clapp Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection conducted in 1995. With a drainage area of 308 square miles and a maximum discharge of 148 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and mitigating potential risks associated with flooding.
As an essential component of the local water infrastructure, Clapp Lake Dam contributes to the conservation of water resources and provides recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. With its strategic location on Lacey Creek and proximity to the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam serves as a vital asset in water management efforts in Chatham County, North Carolina. Environmental enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the role of Clapp Lake Dam in balancing water supply needs with recreational enjoyment while maintaining a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
510 |
River Or Stream |
Lacey Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
308 |
Nid Storage |
250 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Clapp Lake Dam