Darden Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Darden Dam is a private dam located in Wake County, North Carolina, along the Upper Barton Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. With a surface area of 4 acres, the dam boasts a high hazard potential but is currently in a satisfactory condition, last inspected in January 2019.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Darden Dam is subject to state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam does not have any associated structures or locks, making it a standalone feature along the creek. Despite the lack of detailed information on its construction and completion date, the dam remains a crucial recreational resource in the region, attracting enthusiasts and visitors seeking outdoor activities and water-based adventures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Darden Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a private entity with state oversight, the dam represents a balance between public safety and recreational enjoyment. Its presence along the Upper Barton Creek adds both beauty and function to the local landscape, serving as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water demands.

Dam Length

100

River Or Stream

Upper Barton Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

45

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.