Saxapahaw is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Alamance County, North Carolina, along the Haw River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1938, this concrete dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet. With a storage capacity of 315 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 10,800 cubic feet per second, Saxapahaw plays a crucial role in water resource management and power generation in the region.
Operated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Saxapahaw's primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation. The dam has a significant hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Despite its age, Saxapahaw continues to be a key player in the local water infrastructure, providing essential services while also posing some level of risk that needs to be managed effectively.
With a spillway width of 700 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, Saxapahaw is equipped to handle excess water flow during periods of high rainfall or flooding. The dam's moderate risk level and its location in the Wilmington District underscore the importance of maintaining and monitoring this vital piece of water infrastructure to safeguard both the environment and surrounding communities. Saxapahaw stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and sustainable energy production in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
1065 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Haw |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
106 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1020 |
Nid Storage |
315 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
28 |