Northshore Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Northshore Lake Dam in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a locally owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, providing a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a maximum storage of 63 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, this dam on Marsh Creek serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts in Wake County.

Despite its recreational appeal, Northshore Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The latest inspection in November 2020 deemed the dam's condition as satisfactory, reassuring visitors of its safety. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, and measures are in place to manage any potential risks associated with the structure.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Mineral, and Land Resources, the Northshore Lake Dam is a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, balancing the need for water recreation with the importance of safety and environmental conservation. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while safeguarding against potential risks highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the local community.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

246

River Or Stream

Marsh Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.