Hennessee Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: O. A. Fish Dam Cherry Ridge Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hennessee Dam, located in Bostic, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam on Robinson Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, the dam has a hydraulic height of 36.5 feet and a structural height of 43.5 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. The dam spans 450 feet in length and covers a surface area of 4 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of March 2021, Hennessee Dam is classified with a significant hazard potential. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by various state agencies including the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam has a regular inspection frequency of every two years and is located within the jurisdiction of the state. With its proximity to the Nashville District and the oversight of state agencies, Hennessee Dam remains a notable structure that contributes to water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the unique features of Hennessee Dam, which not only provides recreational opportunities but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage. The dam's structural design and storage capacity serve as essential components for managing water flow in Robinson Creek. As a significant piece of infrastructure in Rutherford County, North Carolina, Hennessee Dam showcases the importance of maintaining and regulating dams to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Its location within a scenic area adds to its appeal for those interested in both water resource management and outdoor recreation.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
450 |
River Or Stream |
Robinson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
36.5 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
43.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
64cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
53cfs |
Jacob Fork At Ramsey
|
19cfs |
Broad River Near Boiling Springs
|
623cfs |
Cove Creek Near Lake Lure
|
64cfs |
Catawba R Nr Pleasant Gardens
|
129cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Vein Mountain Gold Camp & Carolina Emerald Mine
|
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Lucky Strike Campground
|
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Murray Branch Campground
|
Hennessee Dam