Berry Downs Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gates Pond Holt Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Smithfield, North Carolina, the Berry Downs Dam is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a length of 520 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet and is situated along the Holt Lake-Os river or stream.
Despite its purpose for recreation, the Berry Downs Dam poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Dam Safety Program. The most recent inspection in December 2020 deemed the dam's condition as satisfactory. With its location in Johnston County, the dam's risk management and emergency preparedness protocols are crucial to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of any unforeseen events. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between recreational use and safety measures that govern the operation of the Berry Downs Dam.
Dam Length |
520 |
River Or Stream |
Holt Lake-Os |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Berry Downs Dam