Lakemont Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lakemont Dam, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, was completed in 1964 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This private dam on the Big Branch-Tr River has a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 24 feet, with a length of 275 feet. It has a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 158 cubic feet per second.

With a surface area of 8.3 acres and draining from a 245-acre drainage area, Lakemont Dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition. Despite being inspected in 1987, the dam is not state-regulated or permitted. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the risk management measures in place for this dam and be aware of its emergency action plan, as well as the potential impact of its failure on the surrounding area.

Overall, Lakemont Dam stands as a significant landmark for recreational activities in Wake County, but its high hazard potential and lack of recent assessments highlight the importance of continued monitoring and risk assessment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the condition and safety measures of dams like Lakemont is essential for ensuring the protection of both the environment and local communities.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

275

River Or Stream

Big Branch-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

245

Nid Storage

91

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.