Manchester Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Manchester Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation along the Honeycutt Creek.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type, stands at a hydraulic height of 16.3 feet and a structural height of 22.5 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, as of the last inspection in November 2019.

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Manchester Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam has a history of compliance with safety guidelines and emergency action plans, although the frequency of inspections is every two years. The presence of associated structures is minimal, with no locks or outlet gates, emphasizing its focus on recreational use and minimal impact on the surrounding environment.

With its location in the Enderbury Drive area, Manchester Dam provides a vital source of water-based recreation while also serving as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and safety. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the infrastructure and management of such structures is crucial for ensuring the safety of communities and the preservation of natural ecosystems in the face of changing climates and environmental challenges.

River Or Stream

Honeycutt Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16.3

Nid Storage

88

Structural Height

22.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.