Wiccacanee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wiccacanee Lake Dam, nestled in the heart of Northampton, North Carolina, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Built in 1955, this private dam on Kirby Creek serves primarily as a recreational oasis for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, this earth dam spans 425 feet in length and boasts a maximum storage capacity of 80 acre-feet.

Despite its age, Wiccacanee Lake Dam has withstood the test of time, maintaining a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated." While it hasn't undergone any recent inspections since September 1976, the dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors seeking respite and recreation. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures remain unassigned, signaling a need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure the continued safety and sustainability of this beloved water resource.

Wiccacanee Lake Dam serves as a vital link between the community of Lewters Crossroads and the natural beauty of Kirby Creek. As climate change and water resource management become increasingly relevant topics, it is imperative that structures like Wiccacanee Lake Dam receive the attention and care they deserve to protect both the environment and the people who benefit from its existence. So, next time you find yourself at Wiccacanee Lake Dam, take a moment to appreciate the harmony between humanity and nature that this dam represents.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

425

River Or Stream

Kirby Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.