Strayhorn Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Strayhorn Dam #2, located in Orange County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a hydraulic height of 20.5 feet and a structural height of 23.5 feet, has a normal storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9.1 acres and a drainage area of 230 square miles, the dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2019.

This dam on Stony Creek-Tr serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. The dam is state regulated and permitted, with inspections conducted regularly by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Although the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion, its emergency action plan and risk management measures are areas that warrant further attention and development to enhance safety protocols and preparedness for potential emergencies.

With its picturesque location and important role in providing recreational opportunities, Strayhorn Dam #2 is a vital asset in Orange County's water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial for dam owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize the maintenance and safety of such structures to mitigate risks and ensure the sustainable use of water for future generations. By implementing proactive measures and staying vigilant in monitoring the dam's condition, stakeholders can uphold the dam's function while safeguarding the surrounding environment and communities from potential hazards.

River Or Stream

Stony Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.1

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Drainage Area

230

Nid Storage

98

Structural Height

23.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.