Catawba Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Catawba, also known as Bridgewater, is a hydroelectric dam located in Glen Alpine, North Carolina, along the Catawba River.


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Summary

Built in 1919 by the Western Power Company, this earth dam stands at 150 feet tall and stretches 3155 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 288,800 acre-feet and a drainage area of 380 square miles, Catawba plays a crucial role in providing clean energy through hydroelectric power generation.

Managed by a public utility, Catawba is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's spillway, with a width of 305 feet, allows for a maximum discharge of 146,733 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, Catawba has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating a level of risk that requires careful monitoring and management. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in December 2020, ensuring preparedness for any unforeseen events.

As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, Catawba continues to serve as a vital source of renewable energy and water resource management. Its historical significance, impressive dimensions, and important role in the local ecosystem make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and learn more about.

Year Completed

1919

Dam Length

3155

Dam Height

150

River Or Stream

Catawba River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6510

Hydraulic Height

150

Drainage Area

380

Nid Storage

288800

Structural Height

150

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

150
       
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.