Lake Michie Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Michie Dam, located in Redwood, Durham, North Carolina, is a vital water resource structure serving multiple purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1926, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 92 feet, with a hydraulic height of 81 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 12,400 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 18,660 acre-feet. Covering a surface area of 460 acres and draining an area of 106,880 acres, the dam on Flat River ensures water supply and recreation opportunities for the surrounding community.

Managed by a public utility, Lake Michie Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections every two years, with the last assessment conducted in October 2020. Although no spillway information is provided, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified, indicating potential areas for further improvement and preparedness in the face of climate variability and water resource challenges.

As a key infrastructure element in the region, Lake Michie Dam plays a crucial role in water supply and recreational activities. With its historical significance dating back nearly a century, the dam continues to serve the community while facing potential risks that necessitate ongoing monitoring and management to ensure its resilience in the changing climate conditions. Enthusiasts and stakeholders interested in water resources and climate adaptation can appreciate the significance of Lake Michie Dam as a critical asset in the Durham area's water management and resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

920

River Or Stream

Flat River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

460

Hydraulic Height

81

Drainage Area

106880

Nid Storage

18660

Structural Height

92

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

92
       
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.