Shelley Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shelley Lake, also known as Crabtree W/S Dam #13, is a local government-owned water structure located in Wake, North Carolina.


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Summary

Designed by USDA NRCS, this dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along Lead Mine Creek, providing protection to the surrounding areas, including Raleigh. Completed in 1975, the earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 41 feet and a structural height of 51 feet, with a storage capacity of 4,269 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5,219 acres.

With a spillway type of uncontrolled, Shelley Lake has a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in January 2021. The dam, with its stone core and soil foundation, not only serves flood risk reduction purposes but also offers recreational opportunities to the community. Despite its moderate risk level, ongoing inspections and enforcement by NCDEQ and DEMLR ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shelley Lake remains a vital asset in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1155

River Or Stream

Lead Mine Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

53

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

5219

Nid Storage

4269

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.