Crappie Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crappie Lake Dam, located in Wagram, North Carolina, serves as a significant recreational and water supply structure along the Big Branch Drowning Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1933, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, with a length of 480 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 163 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and is in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2011.

The primary purpose of Crappie Lake Dam is for recreation, with additional benefits for water supply. The dam's normal storage capacity is 136 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 20.5 acres. While not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. With a maximum discharge capacity of 230 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Although no emergency action plan is currently in place, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities and water supply benefits to the community.

In the picturesque setting of Richmond County, North Carolina, Crappie Lake Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and the importance of water resource management. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the significance of this dam lies not only in its structural integrity but also in its contribution to the local ecosystem and economy. With a rich history dating back to the Great Depression era, Crappie Lake Dam remains a vital piece of infrastructure for the region, balancing the needs of recreation and water supply while embodying the enduring connection between humans and their natural environment.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Big Branch Drowning Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20.5

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

163

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.