Duke University Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Duke University Dam, located in Durham, North Carolina, serves as a vital irrigation resource for the area.


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Summary

Completed in 2006, this earth dam stands at 16 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 4 feet and a length of 300 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 162 acre-feet. The dam is situated along the UT to Sandy Creek waterway and covers a surface area of 27.1 acres, making it a key player in water management and conservation efforts in the region.

Despite its primary purpose for irrigation, Duke University Dam also offers recreational opportunities to the community. With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2017, the dam ensures safety and functionality for those who utilize its surrounding area for leisure activities. Managed by a private owner, the dam is not regulated by the state but undergoes regular inspections to maintain its integrity and operational efficiency.

In addition to its irrigation and recreational benefits, Duke University Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Durham. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam stands as a reliable structure for water storage and distribution in the region. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, the dam contributes to the overall sustainability and conservation of water resources for both present and future generations.

Year Completed

2006

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

UT to Sandy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.1

Hydraulic Height

4

Nid Storage

162

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.