Sas Lower (Four Star Ventures Llc Dam) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sas Lower (Four Star Ventures LLC Dam), also known as Umstead Hotel Lake Dam, is a private dam located in Cary, North Carolina.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet. It boasts a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, providing a scenic surface area of 4 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 deemed it satisfactory. The dam has not been modified in recent years and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety. With a last inspection date in November 2018, the dam has emergency action plans in place to meet guidelines and mitigate risks in case of an unforeseen event. Situated on Crabtree Creek-Tr, this dam adds to the recreational charm of the area while also serving as a vital water resource.

While not under state regulation, Sas Lower Dam remains an important asset in the region, offering both recreational opportunities and a supplementary water source. With its satisfying condition, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness, this dam stands as a symbol of responsible dam management in the face of potential hazards. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sas Lower Dam is a fascinating example of the intersection between human development and environmental safety in North Carolina.

Dam Length

330

River Or Stream

Crabtree Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.