Preston Crossings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Preston Crossings Dam, located in Cary, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes along the Turkey Creek-Tr.


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Summary

The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a length of 420 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 12 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 18.8 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2 acres and draining an area of 26 square miles.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of March 2020, the dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and function. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Dam Safety Program, with inspection and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection was conducted in March 2020, with a frequency of every 2 years.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Preston Crossings Dam will find it to be a significant structure in the region, contributing to water storage and recreational activities. Its presence along the Turkey Creek-Tr adds to the local landscape and provides opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. With its state-regulated status and ongoing inspection processes, the dam serves as a vital component of the area's infrastructure and environmental management.

Dam Length

420

River Or Stream

Turkey Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

26

Nid Storage

18.8

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.