Rocky River Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wood Lake Dam Clapp Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rocky River Reservoir Dam, also known as Rocky River Upper Dam, is a significant structure located in Siler City, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1961, this earth-type dam serves multiple purposes, primarily for recreation and water supply. With a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, providing a crucial resource for the surrounding area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Rocky River Reservoir Dam has a low hazard potential and is considered to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2018. The dam's location on the Rocky River offers a picturesque setting for recreational activities, with a surface area of approximately 100 acres. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management and recreation for the community.
In addition to its recreational value, Rocky River Reservoir Dam serves as a key component of the water supply infrastructure in Chatham, North Carolina. With a normal storage capacity of 403 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1006 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a critical role in managing the water resources of the region. As a well-maintained and regulated structure, Rocky River Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper dam management in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
730 |
River Or Stream |
Rocky River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
100 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Rocky River Reservoir Dam