Back Creek Reservoir Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Back Creek Reservoir in Haw River, North Carolina, is a vital water supply source that was completed in 1991.


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Summary

The reservoir, situated on East Back Creek, serves as a key water resource for the local community, with a storage capacity of 10,645 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 7,057 acre-feet. The dam, standing at a structural height of 40.3 feet and a hydraulic height of 27 feet, plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for residents and businesses in Alamance County.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Dam Safety Program, Back Creek Reservoir undergoes regular inspections to maintain its satisfactory condition and high hazard potential. With a drainage area of 42,240 acres and a surface area of 646 acres, the reservoir plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's maximum discharge capacity of 811,292 cubic feet per second underscores its importance in flood control and water management efforts.

The location of Back Creek Reservoir, along with its strategic design and operational efficiency, highlights its critical role in water supply management for the region. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the reservoir stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices and the importance of maintaining safe and reliable water sources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

700

River Or Stream

East Back Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

646

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

42240

Nid Storage

10645

Structural Height

40.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.