Lake Raleigh Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Raleigh Dam, located in Wake, North Carolina, serves as a crucial water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Built in 1914, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 22 feet, with a hydraulic height of 17 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 781 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 450 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 66 acres. Its primary purpose is water supply, and it is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

Despite its age, Lake Raleigh Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2019. With a hazard potential rated as high, the dam requires regular inspections every two years. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are currently under review, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management and preparedness. The dam's location in the Walnut Creek area underscores its significance in maintaining water resources and managing potential risks associated with its operation.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

530

River Or Stream

Walnut Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

66

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

781

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.