Sherman Lakes Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sherman Lakes Upper is a private recreational dam located in Harnett County, North Carolina.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, with a length of 230 feet. It provides a storage capacity of 14.4 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 12 feet. The dam sits on Neal Creek Trib and is regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.

Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Sherman Lakes Upper poses a high hazard potential with an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of November 2019. The dam has a biennial inspection frequency and has not been modified in recent years. In case of emergencies, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated emergency contacts. The risk management measures and inundation maps for the dam are also not prepared, raising concerns for potential risks and safety measures.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Sherman Lakes Upper can observe the dam's critical status and potential risks associated with its recreational use. With its high hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition assessment, it is crucial for the dam owner to prioritize safety measures, such as developing an EAP, updating emergency contacts, and conducting risk assessments. Monitoring the dam's condition and implementing necessary risk management measures are essential to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Neal Creek Trib

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

14.4

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.