Riggsbee Dam, located in Apex, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1996, this earth dam on Turkey Creek-Tr stands at a height of 16 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 24 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 15 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres. Despite its small size, Riggsbee Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and satisfactory condition.
Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Riggsbee Dam falls under state jurisdiction and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the NCDEQ. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 108 cfs and is situated in the Wilmington District. While it does not have associated locks or spillways, the dam's risk potential is closely monitored, with emergency preparedness plans in place. With its picturesque location and important role in water resource management and recreation, Riggsbee Dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and community in Wake County.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Riggsbee Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of private ownership, state regulation, and environmental stewardship. Its modest size belies the critical role it plays in managing water flow, providing recreational opportunities, and safeguarding against potential hazards. As efforts to mitigate climate change and enhance water security continue to be at the forefront of environmental discourse, understanding the complexities and challenges facing dams like Riggsbee Dam is essential for developing sustainable water management practices and policies for the future.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
320 |
River Or Stream |
Turkey Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
20 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
16 |