Laurel Hills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Laurel Hills Dam, also known as Hester Pond, is a private dam located in Wake, North Carolina, along the Crabtree Creek-Tr river.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 28.8 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 4.2 acres for visitors to enjoy. However, despite its recreational appeal, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential and is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in January 2018.

The dam, with a length of 240 feet and a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet, is regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. It is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to note the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of dams like Laurel Hills Dam, especially in light of its high hazard potential. As such, efforts should be made to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

In the interest of public safety and the preservation of the surrounding environment, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Laurel Hills Dam are crucial. Climate and water resource enthusiasts should advocate for regular assessments and necessary repairs to ensure the dam's structural integrity and prevent any potential hazards that could arise from its current condition. By staying informed and engaged in the upkeep of critical infrastructure like Laurel Hills Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in their communities.

Dam Length

240

River Or Stream

Crabtree Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Hydraulic Height

28.8

Drainage Area

136

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.