Rhodhiss Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rhodhiss is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Rhodhiss, North Carolina, along the Catawba River.


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Summary

Built in 1925 by the Western Carolina Power Company, this gravity dam stands at 72 feet high with a structural height of 69.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 60 feet. It serves as a vital water resource in the region, with a storage capacity of 27,570 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500,000 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Rhodhiss Dam has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam is inspected annually to ensure its safety and reliability. With a spillway width of 800 feet and a surface area of 3,515 acres, Rhodhiss Dam plays a crucial role in water management and hydroelectric power generation in the area. Its historical significance and environmental impact make it a key attraction for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Rhodhiss Dam not only provides essential hydroelectric power but also serves as a significant water management infrastructure in Caldwell County, North Carolina. With its impressive dam length of 675 feet and a drainage area of 1,120 square miles, Rhodhiss Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. As climate change and water resource management become increasingly important topics, the role of dams like Rhodhiss in sustainable development and renewable energy production cannot be overstated.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

675

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

Catawba

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3515

Hydraulic Height

60

Drainage Area

1120

Nid Storage

27570

Structural Height

69.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

72
       
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.