Bay Meadows Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bay Meadows Lake Dam, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Constructed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, with a length of 582 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 80 acre-feet, covering an approximate surface area of 8 acres. The dam poses a high hazard potential and was last assessed to be in fair condition as of February 2021.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Bay Meadows Lake Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. Situated on Morgan Creek-Tr, the dam is within the jurisdiction of the state, ensuring compliance with safety standards and permitting requirements. Despite its recreational purpose, the dam's potential risk level warrants regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures to safeguard the surrounding Farrington community and downstream areas.
With a history of maintenance and periodic inspections, Bay Meadows Lake Dam remains a notable feature in the region's water resource management landscape. As a pivotal piece of infrastructure, its condition and safety protocols are paramount in ensuring the protection of residents and the environment. As climate variability continues to pose challenges, the continued oversight and management of this dam are crucial for maintaining public safety and preserving the natural ecosystem of Durham County.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
582 |
River Or Stream |
Morgan Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Parkers Creek State Rec Area - Jordan Lake
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Crosswinds State Rec Area - Jordan Lake
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Poplar Point State Rec Area - Jordan Lake
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Bay Meadows Lake Dam