Tom Harrison Memorial Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Dam Lunker Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Tom Harrison Memorial Dam, also known as Conway Rose Dam or Lake Wackena Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Seven Springs, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam on Walnut Creek serves the primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 25.3 feet, the dam spans 1400 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 1070 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities in a picturesque setting.
The dam, with a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment, is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program. It has a maximum discharge capacity of 5800 cubic feet per second and a storage capacity of 2700 acre-feet. The surrounding area boasts a surface area of 172 acres and a drainage area of 8355 acres, showcasing the importance of this water resource for both recreational and ecological purposes. Despite the moderate risk assessment and the need for regular inspections, Tom Harrison Memorial Dam continues to offer a valuable water source for the local community.
This iconic dam, representing a blend of natural beauty and human engineering, stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in a changing climate. With its uncontrolled spillway and stone core foundation, Tom Harrison Memorial Dam serves as a vital hub for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As climate enthusiasts explore the surrounding area, they can appreciate the efforts of the Natural Resources Conservation Service in creating and maintaining this recreational oasis on Walnut Creek.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
River Or Stream |
Walnut Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
172 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
8355 |
Nid Storage |
2700 |
Structural Height |
25.3 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
1090cfs |
Contentnea Creek At Hookerton
|
466cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
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.
Tom Harrison Memorial Dam