Jackson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jackson Dam in Wake, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

The dam, situated on Kenneth Creek-Tr, serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a hydraulic height of 30.5 feet and a structural height of 33 feet. With a storage capacity of 28 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.1 acres, Jackson Dam provides a picturesque setting for water enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Despite its low hazard potential, Jackson Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in February 1999. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment are not available, raising questions about its readiness for potential emergencies. While the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, there is limited information on its risk management measures and adherence to guidelines for emergency preparedness.

Located in the Wilmington District, Jackson Dam is a modest earth dam with a length of 330 feet and a height of 33 feet. As a key feature in the local landscape, the dam offers a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. However, the lack of recent inspection data and comprehensive risk assessment highlights the importance of ensuring the safety and resilience of this water resource in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

330

River Or Stream

Kenneth Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.1

Hydraulic Height

30.5

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

28

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.