Crabtree Creek Dam 5-A Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Crabtree Creek Dam 5-A, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along Stirup Iron Creek.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a structural height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 3010 acre-feet, serving as a vital component in managing water resources in the region. With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2018, the dam is regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, ensuring its compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements.
The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its flood risk reduction primary purpose, making it a key infrastructure for protecting the surrounding communities, including the city of Raleigh. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. Additionally, the dam's location at I-40 offers strategic water management opportunities and highlights the importance of maintaining proper oversight and management of water resources in the area.
As part of the broader water resource management efforts in North Carolina, Crabtree Creek Dam 5-A plays a critical role in safeguarding the region against potential flooding events. The involvement of the Natural Resources Conservation Service in its design underscores the collaborative approach to water infrastructure development, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices in protecting the environment and communities. With its significant storage capacity and state-regulated status, the dam represents a vital asset in the state's efforts to mitigate flood risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in the area.
River Or Stream |
Stirup Iron Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
5663 |
Nid Storage |
3010 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Crabtree Creek Dam 5-A
Lake Trail Wake County