Summer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Summer Lake Dam, also known as Summerwood Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Wake County, North Carolina.


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Summary

It is regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program and is used primarily for recreational purposes. The dam is an earth-type structure with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, creating a surface area of 4.3 acres and holding a maximum storage capacity of 18 acre-feet.

Situated on Haresnipe Creek, the Summer Lake Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently in a satisfactory condition following its last inspection in December 2019. The dam does not have a designated spillway and does not feature any outlet gates or associated structures. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam remains an important feature in the local water resource and climate landscape, providing both recreational opportunities and critical water storage capacity in the region.

With its picturesque location and important role in the surrounding ecosystem, Summer Lake Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Its presence offers a unique blend of recreational enjoyment and environmental significance, highlighting the delicate balance between human needs and natural conservation efforts. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's safety and maintenance, it stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

Haresnipe Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

28

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.