T.M. Rankin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

T.M.


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Summary

Rankin Dam, located in Eden, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes. Constructed in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this dam sits on the Rock House Creek-Tr river and spans 310 feet in length with a hydraulic height of 20.2 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 21 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 238 cubic feet per second, this dam provides valuable water resource management in the area.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, T.M. Rankin Dam has received a satisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in November 2012. With no state regulation or enforcement in place, this dam continues to serve its recreational purpose in the Rockingham County area. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing management measures to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of changing climate conditions.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, T.M. Rankin Dam stands as a notable structure managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Its presence on the Rock House Creek-Tr river contributes to the overall water management system in the region, providing both recreational benefits and risk management considerations. As climate factors continue to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like T.M. Rankin becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

310

River Or Stream

Rock House Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Hydraulic Height

20.2

Drainage Area

72

Nid Storage

37

Structural Height

25.2

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.