Ronald Mcknight Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ronald Mcknight Dam, located in Davie, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in irrigation along the Yadkin River.


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Summary

Built in 1985 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 21.7 feet and a structural height of 25.2 feet, with a length of 320 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 41 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 61 acre-feet, serving the purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area.

Despite its importance for irrigation, the dam's condition assessment in 2014 revealed a poor rating, with a low hazard potential. The inspection frequency is set at every 5 years, with the last inspection taking place in December 2014. The risk assessment for Ronald Mcknight Dam indicates a moderate risk level, with no emergency action plan in place. The dam is regulated by the NCDEQ's Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state regulations and enforcement.

In conclusion, Ronald Mcknight Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the region, albeit facing challenges in terms of its condition and risk assessment. As an earth dam with a stone core, its role in irrigation along the Yadkin River remains crucial, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety for the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

Yadkin River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

21.7

Drainage Area

89

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

25.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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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.