Cedar Hills Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Wake, North Carolina, Cedar Hills Lake Dam is a privately-owned structure that plays a crucial role in the management of the Big Creek watershed.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 22 feet, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene environment for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its compliance with state regulations and safety standards.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2020, Cedar Hills Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its proximity to the surrounding community. Regular inspections every two years help monitor the dam's structural integrity and ensure necessary maintenance and repairs are promptly addressed. In the event of an emergency, however, the presence of an Emergency Action Plan is currently unknown, raising concerns about the preparedness and response protocols in case of a dam failure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to advocate for the implementation of risk management measures and the development of comprehensive emergency plans to safeguard both the dam and the downstream community from potential hazards.

River Or Stream

Big Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

20

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.