Timberlake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Timberlake Dam, located in Wake, North Carolina, is a crucial structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

This earth dam on the Little River serves primarily as a fish and wildlife pond, providing essential habitat for local species. With a hydraulic height of 3.5 feet and a structural height of 15.1 feet, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and supporting recreational activities in the area.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Timberlake Dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance efforts. The dam has a storage capacity of 9999 acre-feet and a length of 365 feet, showcasing its significant role in managing water flow and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding. With the last inspection conducted in January 2021, it is evident that the authorities are proactive in ensuring the safety and integrity of this critical infrastructure.

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality, Timberlake Dam stands as a key component in the local water resource management system. As a focal point for fish and wildlife conservation and recreational activities, this dam serves as a testament to the intersection of human development and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and critical functions, Timberlake Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure that requires ongoing attention and investment to ensure its continued effectiveness and safety for the surrounding community.

Dam Length

365

River Or Stream

Little River

Hydraulic Height

3.5

Nid Storage

9999

Structural Height

15.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

15
       
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.