Shearon Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shearon Lake Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet and has a Normal Impoundment Design (NID) storage capacity of 85 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Little River-Tr, approximately 19 miles from the city of Lowell Mill.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Shearon Lake Dam has been state regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in 1999, with a frequency of inspection every 5 years. The condition of the dam is currently listed as "Not Rated" with a moderate risk assessment score of 3.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shearon Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and safety. With its unique design and recreational purpose, the dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure and natural water systems. Its location and regulatory status offer valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and monitoring dams in the face of changing environmental conditions.

River Or Stream

Little River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

85

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

17
       
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.