Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs were created to provide brief answers to common questions related to the project.

1. Where is the proposed Little River Reservoir located?

2. When would the reservoir be built?

3. How long would the environmental review and permitting phase last?

4. Would the lake be available for public recreational use?

5. How much water would be available for drinking water?

6. How long would the reservoir meet the City of Raleigh service area's drinking water demand?

7. Where can I learn more about the land use ordinances for the watershed?

1.  Where is the proposed Little River Reservoir Located?

The Little River Reservoir would be located in eastern Wake County.  The Little River, a tributary of the Neuse River, originates in Franklin County and joins the Neuse River near Goldsboro, NC.  Click here for a detailed map of the location.

2.  When would the reservoir be built?

Construction is anticipated to begin on the dam, reservoir, and water treatment facility in the year 2016 and to be completed in 2019.

3.  How long would the environmental review and permitting phase last?

The environmental review and permitting stage is expected to last approximately six years.  The Final EIS report for the proposed reservoir is expected to be completed in 2014.

4.  Would the lake be available for public recreational use?

The main priority of this reservoir is to provide safe drinking water to the City of Raleigh and surrounding areas; however, it is currently anticipated that the Little River Reservoir will be available for restricted public use, including picnicking, hiking and observing wildlife.

5.  How much water would be available for drinking water?

The reservoir is expected to store 3.7 billion gallons of water, and will be capable of providing a 50-year safe yield of 13.7 million gallons per day. For peak demand periods, the reservoir and its associated water treatment plant will be capable of delivering 20 million gallons per day of drinking water.

6. How long would the reservoir meet the City of Raleigh service area's drinking water demand?

The reservoir is intended to meet the City of Raleigh service area's projected water demands through the year 2040.  The City of Raleigh periodically reassesses its water demand projections, as needed.

7. Where can I learn more about the land use ordinances for the watershed?

The State of North Carolina has classified the Little River watershed as a WS-II water supply watershed.  Wake County is committed to protect this watershed by controlling development density and urban-style development in the Little River Watershed.  To learn more about the applicable Wake County ordinances, click here (http://www.wakegov.com/planning/landuse/littleriver/default.htm).