Sleepy Creek Lake Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sleepy Creek Lake Lower Dam, located in Seven Springs, North Carolina, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam on Sleepy Creek stands at a hydraulic height of 20.9 feet and a structural height of 24.9 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 293 acre-feet and a normal storage of 167 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and recreational activities in the area.
Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam has a history of state inspection and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards. With a drainage area of 3,114 acres and a surface area of 20 acres, Sleepy Creek Lake Lower Dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in Wayne County.
The dam, which has not been modified in recent years, features a spillway type and width that are not specified in the data. However, with a last inspection date in December 2019 and an inspection frequency of every 2 years, efforts are being made to monitor and maintain the dam's integrity. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Sleepy Creek Lake Lower Dam is not only a water resource but also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Dam Length |
380 |
River Or Stream |
Sleepy Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.9 |
Drainage Area |
3114 |
Nid Storage |
293 |
Structural Height |
24.9 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Neuse River At Kinston
|
1090cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Contentnea Creek At Hookerton
|
466cfs |
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.
Sleepy Creek Lake Lower Dam