Dutchman Downs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dutchman Downs Lake Dam, located in Wake, North Carolina, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a structural height of 18 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, this earth dam controls Dutchmans Creek and provides a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam's surface area covers 10 acres, offering a scenic and tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite its fair condition assessment and significant hazard potential, Dutchman Downs Lake Dam has been inspected regularly, with the last inspection conducted in November 2018. While the dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, it is subject to periodic state inspections. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently undisclosed, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this recreational water resource.

Situated in a picturesque location within the Wilmington District, Dutchman Downs Lake Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural beauty. As a privately owned structure managed for recreation, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community while also posing important considerations for risk management and emergency preparedness. Its presence along Dutchmans Creek contributes to the regional ecosystem and offers a serene retreat for visitors seeking a connection with nature.

River Or Stream

Dutchmans Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.