Discovery Lake Dam, also known as Lake Drew Dam or Niehs Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Durham, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1978, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Burdens Creek-Tr river. With a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating the potential hazard of high flooding in the region.
Managed and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Discovery Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the latest inspection in February 2021. Emergency action plans are in place, although last reviewed in 2015, to guide response efforts in the event of a breach or failure. With its critical role in flood risk reduction, Discovery Lake Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Discovery Lake Dam to be a significant structure in Durham, North Carolina, contributing to the overall flood risk reduction efforts along the Burdens Creek-Tr river. As a privately owned dam with a high hazard potential, its maintenance, inspection, and emergency preparedness are key components in ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. With a history dating back to 1978 and ongoing regulatory oversight by the NCDEQ, Discovery Lake Dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the region's water management system.
Year Completed |
1978 |
River Or Stream |
Burdens Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
336 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
William B. Umstead State Park
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Rolling View - Falls Lake
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Crosswinds State Rec Area - Jordan Lake
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