Morton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morton Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

This earth dam spans 350 feet in length and has a hydraulic height of 19 feet, providing a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Terrible Creek-Tr, serves not only for irrigation but also for recreational purposes, making it a valuable resource for the local community.

Despite not being state-regulated, Morton Dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in January 2018 revealing a fair condition. With a significant hazard potential, it is crucial that the dam's emergency action plan is up to date and meets safety guidelines. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its ongoing maintenance and risk management measures are essential to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Morton Dam to be a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and management. Its role in providing irrigation water and supporting recreational activities highlights the importance of sustainable water use in the region. With a keen focus on safety and risk management, Morton Dam serves as a reminder of the critical need for effective dam maintenance and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

Terrible Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.