Shearin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Shearin Lake Dam, located in Rosman, North Carolina, is a private-owned earth dam that spans 150 feet in length and stands at a structural height of 25 feet along Upper Creek.


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Summary

While the dam's primary purpose is for recreation, it also serves as a critical water resource in the region. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam does undergo regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in November 1984, highlighting its importance in ensuring public safety and mitigating potential hazards.

With a high hazard potential, Shearin Lake Dam's condition assessment remains unrated, underscoring the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to uphold its structural integrity. While specific details on storage capacity, drainage area, and spillway type are not provided, the dam's significance as a recreational resource and water management infrastructure is evident. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and safeguarding structures like Shearin Lake Dam becomes increasingly crucial in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique blend of recreation and water management offered by Shearin Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in sustainable infrastructure development. By recognizing the dual role of the dam in providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital water resource, stakeholders can work towards enhancing its resilience and ensuring its continued functionality in the face of changing climate conditions. The history and significance of Shearin Lake Dam underscore the interconnectedness of water resources, infrastructure, and climate adaptation, highlighting the need for proactive measures to protect and preserve these essential assets for future generations.

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

Upper Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.