Rdu Wastewater Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

The Rdu Wastewater Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, serves a critical role in managing water resources for the area.


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Summary

Built in 1984, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 13 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 22.5 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 19.5 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in controlling water levels in the Brier Creek-Os tributary.

Despite its importance, the Rdu Wastewater Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential. While it has not been formally rated for its condition, regular inspections have been conducted since its completion. The dam's emergency action plan status is currently unknown, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Rdu Wastewater Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of water management, infrastructure design, and environmental risk. As efforts to address climate change and water scarcity intensify, the importance of maintaining and improving such structures becomes increasingly apparent. The ongoing management of the Rdu Wastewater Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

800

River Or Stream

Brier Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.6

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1.6

Nid Storage

22.5

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.