Gaston - North Saddle Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, Gaston - North Saddle is a rockfill dam with a height of 14.1 meters and a length of 300 meters.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this hydroelectric structure serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply. With a storage capacity of 513,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 20,300 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Owned by a public utility and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Gaston - North Saddle has a high hazard potential due to its location and hydraulic height. While the condition assessment is listed as not available, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide valuable services to the community and remains a key component of the local water infrastructure.

As a significant feature on the Roanoke River, Gaston - North Saddle offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation. With its diverse range of purposes and high-risk profile, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gaston - North Saddle represents a case study in resilience and the ongoing challenges of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in a rapidly changing world.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

14.1

River Or Stream

Roanoke

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

20300

Hydraulic Height

14.1

Drainage Area

8340

Nid Storage

513000

Structural Height

14.1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

14
       
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.