Rink Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rink Lake Dam, located in Falls, North Carolina, is a significant hydroelectric structure built in 1917 on the Little River.


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Summary

With a structural height of 48 feet and a hydraulic height of 41 feet, this arch dam stands as a key component in managing the water resources of the region. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 2,129 acre-feet, serving not only for electricity generation but also for flood control and water supply purposes.

Maintained and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Rink Lake Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential, yet its condition assessment remains fair. The dam's last inspection in January 2020 revealed its operational readiness and safety protocols, with an inspection frequency of twice per year. With its impressive history and ongoing monitoring, Rink Lake Dam symbolizes the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the region.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in Alexander County, Rink Lake Dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the natural resources of the area while ensuring the safety and well-being of nearby communities. With its strategic location on the Little River and its capacity to store over 2,000 acre-feet of water, the dam stands as a symbol of human ingenuity in managing and utilizing water resources for the benefit of society. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rink Lake Dam represents a fascinating blend of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1917

Dam Length

313

River Or Stream

Little River

Surface Area

94.8

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

34112

Nid Storage

2129

Structural Height

48

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
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.