Raeford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Raeford Dam, also known as Lake Upchurch, is a privately owned structure located in Parkton, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1914, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. With a storage capacity of 4200 acre-feet and a surface area of 210 acres, the dam serves as a crucial water resource for the region.

Rockfish Creek is the primary river/stream that Raeford Dam impounds, with a drainage area of 183 square miles. The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a spillway width of 282 feet. In terms of safety, the dam has a high hazard potential and is classified as very high risk, indicating the need for effective risk management measures. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees inspections and regulatory aspects of the dam's operation, ensuring compliance with safety standards.

Overall, Raeford Dam plays a significant role in both hydroelectric power generation and recreation in the area. Its historical significance, combined with its capacity to provide water storage and flood control, underscores the importance of maintaining and managing this critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource demands.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

1380

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Rockfish Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

210

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

183

Nid Storage

4200

Structural Height

29.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 9

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.