Babcock Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Babcock Lake Dam in North Carolina is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Located in Wake County, near Smithfield, this dam on Crabtree Creek-Tr offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With a hydraulic height of 9 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, this low hazard potential dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet.

Despite being uninspected since 1993, Babcock Lake Dam remains in a condition that is not rated, highlighting the need for further assessment and potential maintenance to ensure its integrity. The dam's low hazard potential suggests minimal risk, but it is essential for authorities to stay vigilant in monitoring its condition to prevent any unforeseen incidents. With its proximity to urban areas and recreational significance, the safety and maintenance of Babcock Lake Dam are crucial for the community and the environment.

Enthusiasts and residents interested in Babcock Lake Dam should advocate for regular inspections and assessments to guarantee its safety and longevity. As a vital recreational resource in Wake County, this dam plays a significant role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. By staying informed and actively participating in the maintenance and monitoring of Babcock Lake Dam, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of this valuable infrastructure for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Crabtree Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

9

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.