Roscoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Roscoe Lake Dam, located in Goldston, North Carolina, was completed in 1900 and serves as a recreational facility along Bear Creek-Tr.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is deemed to have a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition based on the last inspection conducted in February 2014.

Owned privately, Roscoe Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permits for its operation. While it does not fall under federal jurisdiction, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The dam does not have associated structures and has a spillway type and width that are unspecified. With a surface area of 9 acres and a maximum discharge of 33 cubic feet per second, the dam offers a serene recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

In the picturesque setting of Chatham, North Carolina, Roscoe Lake Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and continues to provide a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking outdoor recreation. With its historical significance and natural beauty, the dam is a hidden gem for those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources and climate in a tranquil setting. Whether for a leisurely day by the lake or a chance to appreciate the engineering marvel of the past, Roscoe Lake Dam offers a unique and enriching experience for all who venture to its shores.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Bear Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

17
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.