Shephard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shephard Lake Dam, located in Richmond, North Carolina, serves as a crucial water supply resource for the community of Rockingham.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 12 feet and has a hydraulic height of 10 feet, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam spans 660 feet in length and is situated on Falling Creek-Os, contributing to a drainage area of 1446 acres.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Shephard Lake Dam plays a vital role in water management, with a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that remains unrated. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 40 cubic feet per second. Although last inspected in 2008, the dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering and continues to provide essential water resources to the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shephard Lake Dam represents a historical and functional piece of infrastructure that warrants attention and monitoring. As an earth dam with a modest storage capacity, its significance lies in its contribution to local water supply needs and its low-risk profile. With a notable location on Falling Creek-Os and a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, Shephard Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

660

River Or Stream

Falling Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

1446

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.