Chowan University Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chowan University Dam, located in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure on College Branch with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam stands at a hydraulic height of 12.8 feet and a structural height of 17.4 feet, with a length of 300 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 510 square miles.
Despite being assessed as in fair condition with a high hazard potential, Chowan University Dam has been regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. The last inspection was conducted in December 2019, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 2 years. With its importance in water resource management and potential climate impacts, the dam serves as a critical structure in the region and underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Dam Length |
300 |
River Or Stream |
College Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
12.8 |
Drainage Area |
510 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
17.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
24cfs |
Ahoskie Creek At Ahoskie
|
10cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
242cfs |
Cashie River At Sr1257 Near Windsor
|
0cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke Rapids
|
2810cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Chowan University Dam