Henry River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled in the picturesque Henry River area of North Carolina, the Henry River Dam is a historic structure with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1902, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 38 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet, harnessing the power of the Henry Fork river to provide vital energy resources to the region. The dam has a capacity of 77 acre-feet for storage, with a maximum discharge rate of 386 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age and historical significance, the Henry River Dam is facing challenges in terms of its condition assessment, which has been deemed unsatisfactory. With a high hazard potential, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of the surrounding communities. The state of North Carolina regulates the dam, with the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities to mitigate risks associated with the dam.

Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find the Henry River Dam to be a fascinating intersection of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship. As a vital piece of infrastructure for hydroelectric power generation, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between human development and natural resources. With its location in the Henry River area and its crucial role in water management, the dam represents both the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

180

River Or Stream

Henry Fork

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.