Medberry Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Medberry Lake Dam, located in Rockingham, North Carolina, serves as a vital irrigation structure along the Rock House Creek-Tr river system.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1958, this private-owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 23 feet, providing essential water storage for agricultural purposes. With a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a surface area of 17.4 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Medberry Lake Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in December 2014. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it is regularly inspected and meets state safety standards. With a drainage area of 1352 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 770 cubic feet per second, the dam is well-equipped to manage water flow and prevent potential flooding events in the region.

Overall, Medberry Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Through its role in irrigation and water storage, this dam contributes to the sustainable use of water for agricultural purposes while also ensuring the safety and well-being of the local community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting structures like Medberry Lake Dam is crucial in safeguarding our natural resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

180

River Or Stream

Rock House Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.4

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

1352

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.