Rowland Lake Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rowland Lake Dam Lower, also known as Ray Durham Lower Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Gaston, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Spencer Mountain.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 6 acres and a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. It is situated along the South Fork River, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 26 feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in October 2018, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated".

Despite not being state-regulated, Rowland Lake Dam Lower plays a key role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors. The dam's earth construction type and its strategic location along the river contribute to its importance in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region. With a history that dates back to an unspecified completion year, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, offering a safe and enjoyable environment for recreational activities.

Rowland Lake Dam Lower's presence adds to the natural beauty of the area, enhancing the landscape and providing a habitat for various wildlife species. Its low hazard potential and maintenance history indicate a commitment to safety and sustainability, ensuring that the dam remains a valuable asset for water resource management and climate resilience in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam represents a harmonious balance between human recreation and environmental conservation, showcasing the interconnectedness of man-made structures and natural ecosystems.

River Or Stream

South Fork River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.