Roberdel Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Roberdel Lake Dam in Rockingham, North Carolina, is a local government-owned structure regulating Hitchcock Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This concrete dam stands at a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, with a length of 365 feet. The dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes, contributing to the state's energy production and supporting recreational activities in the area.

With a storage capacity of 1,312 acre-feet and a normal storage of 720 acre-feet, Roberdel Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Its condition is assessed as fair, with a significant hazard potential, prompting biennial inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's last inspection in December 2016 revealed its stable state, although ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness are essential components for its continued operation.

Located within the Wilmington District of North Carolina, Roberdel Lake Dam's strategic position along Hitchcock Creek contributes to the overall water management and ecological balance of the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam's role in providing both energy and recreational opportunities underscores the importance of its maintenance and regulatory oversight by state agencies. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate adaptation can appreciate the intricate balance of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems exemplified by Roberdel Lake Dam.

Dam Length

365

River Or Stream

Hitchcock Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

58776

Nid Storage

1312

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.