San-Lee Park Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

San-Lee Park Upper Dam, located in Lee County, North Carolina, is a concrete gravity dam situated on the scenic Little Lick Creek.


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Summary

This dam is owned and regulated by the local government and is primarily used for recreational purposes, offering visitors a tranquil and picturesque setting to enjoy outdoor activities. With a structural height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 45.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.5 acres.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the San-Lee Park Upper Dam undergoes regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and integrity. The last inspection took place in January 2021, with inspections scheduled every two years. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, efforts are made to meet safety guidelines and assess potential risks associated with the structure. The dam's location within a designated recreation area adds to its appeal for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

As a vital part of the Wilmington District water infrastructure, San-Lee Park Upper Dam serves as a key recreational asset while also contributing to the management of water resources in the region. Its presence on the charming Little Lick Creek offers a unique opportunity for visitors to appreciate the intersection of human-made structures and natural landscapes in a way that promotes environmental stewardship and appreciation for the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Little Lick Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

6.5

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1288

Nid Storage

45.5

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

13
       
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.