Sykes Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sykes Lake Dam, located in Durham, North Carolina, was completed in 1951 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 21 feet and spans 900 feet in length, impounding a reservoir with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Cabin Branch-Tr, within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite its recreational significance, Sykes Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of May 2019. The dam is state-regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, undergoing regular inspections every two years. However, the dam lacks emergency action plans and risk management measures, raising concerns for its safety and potential impact on the surrounding area in case of failure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sykes Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study on the intersection of recreational infrastructure and dam safety. The dam's location, design, and condition highlight the importance of proactive risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resource structures in the face of changing environmental conditions and increased pressure on aging infrastructure. As discussions on climate resilience and water management continue to evolve, Sykes Lake Dam serves as a valuable reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing our water resources effectively.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

900

River Or Stream

Cabin Branch-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Drainage Area

160

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

21
       
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.