Wendy Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Chatham, North Carolina, Wendy Hill Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the state.


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Summary

Completed in 1995, this privately owned earth dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a picturesque spot for visitors to enjoy activities such as fishing and boating on the Lick Branch river or stream. With a hydraulic height of 24.2 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 163 acre-feet and a surface area of 13.1 acres, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2018, Wendy Hill Dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of nearby residents and the environment. Regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) and the Dam Safety Program, the dam undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to uphold state regulations and protect against potential risks. As a popular recreational spot with significant water storage capabilities, Wendy Hill Dam serves as a vital asset in both water resource management and climate resilience efforts in North Carolina.

With its proximity to Wilmington District and a drainage area of 175 square miles, Wendy Hill Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and maximizing storage capacity to meet the needs of the local community. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the dam's strategic location and operational capabilities are essential in adapting to shifting environmental conditions. By prioritizing safety, regulation, and sustainable management practices, Wendy Hill Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, serving as a valuable asset for both recreation and environmental protection in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

535

River Or Stream

Lick Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.1

Hydraulic Height

24.2

Drainage Area

175

Nid Storage

163

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.