Shuford Mills Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shuford Mills Dam, located in Catawba, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the region's commitment to hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

This gravity-type dam on the Henry Fork River is privately owned and regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a structural height of 35 feet and a length of 130 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.5 acres, making it a modest yet significant contributor to the local water resource management.

Despite its low hazard potential and the absence of a current condition assessment rating, Shuford Mills Dam undergoes regular inspections every five years to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The last inspection in March 2019 revealed no significant issues, reflecting the diligent maintenance efforts in place for this essential infrastructure. The dam serves as a vital component in the region's renewable energy strategy, harnessing the power of the flowing river to generate electricity and contribute to a sustainable future for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

As a key player in the hydroelectric landscape of North Carolina, Shuford Mills Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and renewable energy generation. Its location in Brookford, Catawba, underscores its importance in the local community and the broader environmental context. With ongoing regulatory oversight and a commitment to safety and sustainability, this dam stands as a beacon of innovation and responsible water resource utilization in the region, making it a point of interest for climate enthusiasts and advocates for renewable energy solutions.

Dam Length

130

River Or Stream

Henry Fork River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4.5

Nid Storage

63

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

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.