Loch Highlands Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Loch Highlands Dam, located in Wake, North Carolina, is a recreational earth dam with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 23 feet.


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Summary

The dam, completed in an unspecified year, has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.4 acres. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

The dam's condition was last assessed in December 2019 and was deemed satisfactory. However, its high hazard potential warrants close monitoring and adherence to safety guidelines. With a designated emergency action plan (EAP) preparation status currently unspecified, it is crucial for the dam owners and regulatory agencies to ensure that necessary risk management measures are in place. Loch Highlands Dam stands as a key feature in the Wilmington District, with its presence adding both recreational value and the need for vigilant maintenance in the face of potential risks associated with its operations.

In the hands of the responsible parties, Loch Highlands Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the balance between recreational benefits and safety considerations. As a significant structure in the region, its management and oversight play a vital role in ensuring the protection of the surrounding community and environment. With its detailed data profile and ongoing regulatory involvement, Loch Highlands Dam represents an intersection of human-made infrastructure and natural forces, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam operations in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

300

Surface Area

6.4

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

59

Structural Height

23

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.