San-Lee Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

San-Lee Park Dam, located in Lee, North Carolina, serves as a vital resource for both fish and wildlife conservation and recreational activities.


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Summary

Completed in 1945, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 24 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Little Lick Creek, covers a surface area of 7 acres and serves a drainage area of 2200 acres, with a maximum discharge capacity of 3945 cubic feet per second.

Maintained and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, San-Lee Park Dam holds a high hazard potential due to its proximity to surrounding communities. Despite this risk, the dam's condition assessment in 2021 was deemed fair, with inspections conducted biennially to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2011, highlighting the importance of preparedness and response in the event of a potential breach or disaster.

San-Lee Park Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, environmental conservation, and public safety. As a key feature of the local landscape, this dam not only provides essential habitat for wildlife but also offers residents and visitors a space for outdoor recreation and enjoyment. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to play a crucial role in sustaining the delicate balance of water resources and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Little Lick Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

2200

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.