Darr Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Darr Dam, located in Randolph County, North Carolina, along the Uwharrie River, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth type, stands at a hydraulic height of 23.6 feet and a structural height of 26.3 feet, with a total length of 370 feet. It has a capacity for 32.5 acre-feet of storage, with a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.3 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2013, Darr Dam does not fall under state regulation or jurisdiction. It is not subject to state permitting or enforcement, although regular inspections are conducted. The dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, and there are no associated structures or outlet gates. The last inspection in 2013 found the dam to be in a satisfactory state, but with no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated.

While Darr Dam may not be a major water resource or climate concern at present, its role in providing recreational opportunities and its impact on the Uwharrie River ecosystem remain important aspects for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor. The dam's location and design make it a notable feature within the region, highlighting the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems. Continued oversight and potential updates to emergency preparedness measures could further enhance the safety and sustainability of Darr Dam in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource management challenges.

Dam Length

370

River Or Stream

Uwharrie River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.3

Hydraulic Height

23.6

Drainage Area

28

Nid Storage

32.5

Structural Height

26.3

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.