Holly Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Genele Dam Deaver Millpond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Holly Lake Dam, located in Sarecta, North Carolina, is a state-owned earthen dam that was completed in 1947 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Situated on Polly Run Creek, this dam has a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 1040 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 112 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area.
Despite being a state-regulated dam, Holly Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in October 2015. The dam has a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. With a maximum discharge capacity of 66 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region, particularly during times of heavy rainfall or flooding events.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be fascinated by the history and significance of Holly Lake Dam, which has been a key feature in the Duplin County landscape for over seven decades. As a critical component of the local water infrastructure, the dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also important water storage and flow management capabilities for the surrounding area. Its strategic location on Polly Run Creek underscores the importance of responsible dam management practices to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
1040 |
River Or Stream |
Polly Run Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Nid Storage |
134 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
1090cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
549cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Trent River Near Trenton
|
19cfs |
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.
Holly Lake Dam