Richmond Community College Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Richmond Community College Dam, also known as the Richmond Technical Institute Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Rockingham, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes along Falling Creek-Os. With a hydraulic height of 13 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, the dam stretches 555 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 233 acre-feet. Its hazard potential is rated as high, but its condition assessment is deemed fair as of the last inspection in January 2021.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, the Richmond Community College Dam is inspected biennially to ensure its safety and compliance with regulatory requirements. It is situated in a picturesque setting with a surface area of 28 acres and a drainage area of 1120 acres, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water recreation. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide a valuable resource for the local community and visitors to enjoy.

Overall, the Richmond Community College Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure for both safety and recreational purposes. As a vital part of the local landscape in Richmond County, North Carolina, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between water resource management, climate considerations, and community engagement in ensuring sustainable and enjoyable use of our natural resources.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

555

River Or Stream

Falling Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

1120

Nid Storage

233

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.