Upper Zoo Dam in Randolph, North Carolina, stands as a vital state-regulated structure on Panther Creek, serving primarily for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1992, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, with a length of 560 feet and a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet. The dam, with a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, offers a picturesque surface area of 12.8 acres against a drainage area of 146 acres, with a maximum discharge capacity of 410 cubic feet per second.
Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Upper Zoo Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in March 2020. Despite its fair condition, the dam remains a crucial component of the region's water resource infrastructure. Situated within the Wilmington District, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices in the state, ensuring the safety of the surrounding community while providing a recreational haven for visitors. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like Upper Zoo Dam play a pivotal role in sustainable water management and climate resilience efforts in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
560 |
River Or Stream |
Panther Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
146 |
Nid Storage |
143 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |