Shopshire Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Blue Dam Hawks Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Shopshire Dam, located in Surry, North Carolina, stands as a vital water resource structure along the Ararat River-Tr.
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Summary
This privately owned dam, completed in 1967, serves primarily for recreation purposes, boasting a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a structural height of 30.2 feet. With a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.3 acres, Shopshire Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam, regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Classified with a high hazard potential, Shopshire Dam holds a fair condition assessment as of December 2020. The dam's emergency action plan, last revised in 2015, remains an essential component in managing potential risks and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities in case of emergencies.
With its strategic location in Ararat/White Plains and its significant role in water resource management, Shopshire Dam stands as a key structure for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its impact on the region's water supply, recreation opportunities, and emergency preparedness highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring this critical infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
215 |
River Or Stream |
Ararat River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
80 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Structural Height |
30.2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ararat River At Ararat
|
138cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Little Yadkin River At Dalton
|
14cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
728cfs |
Dan River Near Francisco
|
80cfs |
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.
Shopshire Dam