Lake Lynn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Lynn, also known as Crabtree W/S Dam #22b, is a local government-owned water resource located in Wake County, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam on Hare Snipe Creek was completed in 1976 and serves primarily for flood risk reduction, with additional recreational purposes. With a structural height of 42 feet and a hydraulic height of 37 feet, Lake Lynn has a storage capacity of 2292 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 55.7 acres.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Lake Lynn poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every two years. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, as well as its close proximity to Raleigh, make it crucial for the state regulatory agency NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program to enforce safety measures. While the risk assessment is moderate, ongoing risk management measures and emergency action plans are essential to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of potential inundation events.

Overall, Lake Lynn stands as a vital infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area, showcasing the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental safety. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find interest in the complexities of dam operations, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness associated with Lake Lynn, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

620

River Or Stream

Hare Snipe Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55.7

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

2390

Nid Storage

2292

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.