Rutherfordton Wastewater Lag. Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Rutherford County, North Carolina, the Rutherfordton Wastewater Lag is a crucial water resource managed by the local government.
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Summary
This dam structure, which regulates the flow of Cleghorn Creek, is deemed significant with a fair condition assessment. Standing at a hydraulic height of 19.3 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, it provides a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet, serving the city of Cliffside with a normal storage capacity of 20 acre-feet.
The Rutherfordton Wastewater Lag is under state regulation, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement overseen by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program. Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam poses a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. The last inspection in January 2020 revealed that the dam meets guidelines for emergency action plans, although further risk assessment and management measures are yet to be put in place.
As a vital water control structure in the region, the Rutherfordton Wastewater Lag plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring public safety. With its proximity to the Nashville District and a local congressman's oversight, the dam's operations and potential risks are closely monitored. It remains imperative for stakeholders and authorities to continue monitoring and implementing measures to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the dam's integrity and functionality for the community it serves.
Dam Length |
994 |
River Or Stream |
Cleghorn Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
19.3 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
64cfs |
Cove Creek Near Lake Lure
|
64cfs |
North Pacolet River At Fingerville
|
113cfs |
Pacolet River Near Fingerville
|
106cfs |
Broad River Near Boiling Springs
|
623cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
53cfs |
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.
Rutherfordton Wastewater Lag.