Tar River Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Tar River Reservoir Dam in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure for both recreation and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam boasts a height of 35 feet and a hydraulic height of 20 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 13,440 acre-feet and a surface area of 1000 acres. Situated on the Tar River, the dam serves as a key component in managing the region's water resources, with a drainage area of 497,280 acres and a normal storage capacity of 11,200 acre-feet.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment and high hazard potential, the Tar River Reservoir Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in January 2021. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The surrounding area offers opportunities for recreational activities, making it a popular destination for water and climate enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources. With its strategic location and critical role in water management, the Tar River Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to responsible engineering and environmental stewardship in Nash County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

Tar River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1000

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

497280

Nid Storage

13440

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.