Sellers Manufacturing Company Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sellers Manufacturing Company, located in Saxapahaw, North Carolina, is a privately-owned hydroelectric facility on the Haw River.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1933, stands at a structural height of 25 feet and spans 834 feet in length. With a normal storage capacity of 350 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 420 acre-feet, Sellers Manufacturing Company plays a vital role in water resource management in the region.

The facility's significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance, with the last assessment conducted in November 2020 and the condition rated as "Not Rated." While not regulated by the state, Sellers Manufacturing Company operates under the oversight of the North Carolina primary source agency, ensuring compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2,310 cubic feet per second, the hydroelectric plant contributes to the region's renewable energy production while also serving as a key player in water resource management along the Haw River.

As climate change poses increasing challenges to water resources and energy production, Sellers Manufacturing Company's role as a hydroelectric facility becomes even more critical. By harnessing the power of the Haw River, this concrete dam not only generates clean energy but also helps regulate water flow, providing essential support to the surrounding ecosystem and communities. With a history dating back to the early 20th century, Sellers Manufacturing Company stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

834

River Or Stream

Haw River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

85

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

6528000

Nid Storage

420

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.