North Ridge Lake Dam Upper, located in Wake County, North Carolina, serves as a vital irrigation source for the region.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26 feet and stretches 650 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 128 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 168 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the area.
Managed by a private entity, North Ridge Lake Dam Upper is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of March 2020 was rated as satisfactory. With a drainage area of 601 acres and a maximum discharge of 369 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a key role in managing water resources in the Perry Creek watershed.
While primarily serving irrigation purposes, the dam also provides opportunities for recreation in the area. With a surface area of 15 acres, North Ridge Lake Dam Upper contributes to the local ecosystem and enhances the quality of life for residents in Raleigh and beyond. As a significant water resource infrastructure, the dam highlights the importance of sustainable management practices and ongoing monitoring to ensure its safety and effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
650 |
River Or Stream |
Perry Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
601 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Durant Nature Park
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Blue Heron Campground
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Osprey Nest Campground
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Bootleg Point Campground
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Shoreline Campground
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William B. Umstead State Park
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