Petty Lake Dam, also known as Bucher Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Redwood, Durham, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1962, this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with additional benefits for recreation. Standing at 25 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 21 feet, the dam spans 780 feet and has a storage capacity of 131 acre-feet. Situated on the Neuse River-Tr, it covers a surface area of 13.1 acres and drains a watershed area of 141 square miles.
Despite its age, Petty Lake Dam has been regularly inspected, with the most recent assessment in February 2020 rating its condition as fair and hazard potential as low. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state standards for safety and operation. While there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's design and construction have proven effective in managing water flow and storage in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Petty Lake Dam serves as a valuable example of sustainable water management practices in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
780 |
River Or Stream |
Neuse River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
141 |
Nid Storage |
131 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Redwood Campsite
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Rolling View - Falls Lake
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Holly Point - Falls Lake
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Two Oaks Campground
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Shortleaf Pine Campground
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Blue Heron Campground
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