Tennyson Place Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tennyson Place Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, stands as a crucial recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet and a structural height of 12 feet, this earth dam boasts a storage capacity of 2.4 acre-feet. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam has undergone inspections, with the last assessment dating back to May 2006.

While the exact year of completion remains unknown, Tennyson Place Dam continues to serve its primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities to locals and visitors alike. With a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last assessment in 2006. Despite the lack of a comprehensive risk assessment or emergency action plan, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and public recreation in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the Wilmington District's diverse array of dams, Tennyson Place Dam offers a unique glimpse into North Carolina's water management infrastructure. With its unregulated status and significant hazard potential, this earth dam serves as a focal point for discussions around dam safety, emergency preparedness, and the balance between human recreation and environmental conservation. As the dam continues to be a recreational hub in Wake County, monitoring its condition and potential risks remains essential for ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all who visit this vital water resource.

Hydraulic Height

11.5

Nid Storage

2.4

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.