Olde Raleigh Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Olde Raleigh Dam #1, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that spans 200 feet in length and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet.


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Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a storage capacity of 19.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.6 acres. It is situated on Crabtree Creek-Tr and is regulated by the NC Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement requirements.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Olde Raleigh Dam #1 continues to provide recreational opportunities in the Raleigh area. The dam's last inspection in January 2020 revealed its compliance with safety standards, with an inspection frequency of every two years. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it remains a significant feature in the local landscape, offering a serene spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the vital role that Olde Raleigh Dam #1 plays in the local ecosystem and water management. With its regulated state jurisdiction and adherence to safety protocols, the dam stands as a testament to responsible stewardship of water resources in North Carolina. As efforts continue to maintain and monitor its condition, this earth dam presents a unique blend of recreational enjoyment and environmental conservation in the heart of Raleigh.

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Crabtree Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.6

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

45

Nid Storage

19.7

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.