Harrels Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Woodards Pond Wainwright Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Harrels Lake Dam, located in Stantonsburg, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on the White Oak Swamp that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11 feet and a structural height of 14 feet, with a total length of 340 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 44 acre-feet, making it a crucial resource for water supply and management in the area.
Despite being a low-hazard dam, Harrels Lake Dam has not been state regulated or permitted, but it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity. The last inspection of the dam took place in 1982. With a maximum discharge capacity of 79 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in flood control and water management in the region. Although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the dam continues to be a key feature for both recreational and environmental enthusiasts in Wilson County.
As a significant landmark in the community, Harrels Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and preservation of vital infrastructure. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam remains an essential component of the local ecosystem, providing both recreational opportunities and water management functions. As efforts to ensure its safety and sustainability continue, Harrels Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible stewardship of our natural resources in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
340 |
River Or Stream |
White Oak Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Tar River At Nc 97 At Rocky Mount
|
240cfs |
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Tar River At Tarboro
|
418cfs |
Contentnea Creek At Hookerton
|
466cfs |
Tar River At Greenville
|
260cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Harrels Lake Dam