Beaverdam Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Beaverdam Creek Lake Dam is a state-owned structure located in Wake County, North Carolina, along Beaverdam Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 40 feet with a hydraulic height of 29 feet, providing a storage capacity of 33,300 acre-feet for recreation purposes. Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite being rated with a low hazard potential and not being assessed for its condition, Beaverdam Creek Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community. With a length of 1,086 feet, the dam creates a reservoir that covers a significant surface area and offers various water-based activities. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently not available, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness in the event of an emergency.

As part of the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Beaverdam Creek Lake Dam does not have federal ownership or funding. However, with state jurisdiction and permitting in place, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate the intersection of human-made structures and natural ecosystems. The dam's location in Falls, North Carolina, showcases the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation, making it a fascinating subject for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1086

River Or Stream

Beaverdam Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

33300

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.