Rhodhiss is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Rhodhiss, North Carolina, along the Catawba River.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
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41cfs |
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17cfs |
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173cfs |
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18cfs |
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|
24cfs |
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|
42cfs |