Overman Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Overman Lake Dam, located in Siler City, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation on the Rocky River-Tr.
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Summary
Standing at a structural height of 21.3 feet with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, this earth dam was completed in 1960 and has a storage capacity of 167 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 1250 feet and covers a surface area of 12 acres, making it a significant feature in the area's water resource management.
Despite its recreational purpose, Overman Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2021. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets safety standards and guidelines. With a history dating back over six decades, the dam continues to serve as a vital component in the water infrastructure of Randolph County, showcasing the intersection of human-built structures and natural landscapes in the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate science will find Overman Lake Dam to be a captivating subject for study, with its unique design, historical significance, and ongoing regulatory oversight providing insights into the complexities of managing water infrastructure in a changing climate. As a private dam with public safety implications, Overman Lake Dam exemplifies the intersection of human activities and environmental stewardship, highlighting the need for sustainable practices in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1250 |
River Or Stream |
Rocky River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
167 |
Structural Height |
21.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Overman Lake Dam