Shearon Harris Auxiliary Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Shearon Harris Auxiliary Reservoir Dam, located in Wake County, North Carolina, serves as a Category I Emergency Cooling Water source for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 7200 acre-feet. It is situated along the Tom Jack Creek and is primarily regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Shearon Harris Auxiliary Reservoir Dam is considered to be in good operating condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 170 feet, and a drainage area of 2.43 square miles. Its purpose extends beyond typical water resource management, making it a crucial piece of infrastructure for emergency cooling water supply in the region.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, the Shearon Harris Auxiliary Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and stability of the surrounding area. With a focus on public utility and emergency preparedness, this dam serves as a key asset in both water resource management and climate resilience efforts in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

3900

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

TOM JACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

403

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

2.43

Nid Storage

7200

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

55
       
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.