Wakefield Lake Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Wakefield Lake Dam #1, located in Falls, North Carolina, was completed in 1952 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 35 feet with a hydraulic height of 30 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 260 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Jenny Branch river and covers a drainage area of 582 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Wakefield Lake Dam #1 has not been rated in terms of its condition assessment. The last inspection date recorded was in April 1993, with an inspection frequency of 0. While the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, it is subject to regular state inspections. Although there have been no recorded modifications to the dam in recent years, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the safety and management measures in place for this vital infrastructure.

With its picturesque location and important role in irrigation and recreation, Wakefield Lake Dam #1 is an integral part of the water resource infrastructure in Wake County, North Carolina. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential services to the community. As climate change impacts water resources, it becomes increasingly important to monitor and maintain dams like Wakefield Lake Dam #1 to ensure their continued safety and efficacy in water management.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

390

River Or Stream

Jenny Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

582

Nid Storage

260

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.