Camp Kanata Lake Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Kanata Lake Dam #2, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

Built in 1957 for recreational purposes, this earthen dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet, creating a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and serving a drainage area of 813 acres. The dam, situated on Mud Branch Horse Creek, has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in November 2018, with a fair condition assessment.

With a capacity to hold 70 acre-feet of water, Camp Kanata Lake Dam #2 not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area. The dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, meeting state inspection and regulatory standards. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's fair condition assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued reliability and functionality for the community.

As a significant feature in the local landscape, Camp Kanata Lake Dam #2 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and enhancing the natural environment. With its strategic location and structural design, the dam contributes to the conservation of water and the protection of downstream areas from potential flooding risks. While maintaining a focus on recreational benefits, the dam's operational and safety measures align with state regulations and reflect a proactive approach to water resource management in Wake County.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

220

River Or Stream

Mud Branch Horse Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

813

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.