Joe Sherrill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Joe Sherrill Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure for irrigation purposes along the Haw River-Tr.


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth-type dam boasts a hydraulic height of 18.4 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, with a capacity to store up to 74 acre-feet of water. Despite its modest size, the dam serves as a key resource in managing water supply for the surrounding area.

With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2013, Joe Sherrill Dam has proven to be a reliable asset for water resource management. The dam's normal storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and its ability to discharge up to 389 cubic feet per second in times of need highlight its importance in maintaining stable water levels for irrigation purposes. The dam's location within the Huntington District underscores its significance in the regional water infrastructure.

While Joe Sherrill Dam may not be a towering structure, its impact on water resource management in Guilford County is substantial. As a privately owned facility, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring a steady water supply for agricultural and other essential purposes. Its strategic position along the Haw River-Tr underscores its significance in the local ecosystem, making it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Haw River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

18.4

Drainage Area

296

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.