Mount Airy City Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mount Airy City Lake Dam, also known as Tumbling Rock Reservoir, is a local government-owned structure located in Surry County, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1911, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of debris control along the Lovills Creek-Tr river system. With a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 29.5 feet, the dam stands at a total height of 30 feet and spans 280 feet in length.

The dam has a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 660 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2012. The surrounding area covers 4 acres with a drainage area of 706 acres, making it a vital component of the local water resource management system. Although not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality for the community of Mt Airy.

Overall, Mount Airy City Lake Dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from debris and maintaining water resources in the region. With its long history and essential function, this dam is a significant structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and conservation of water systems in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1911

Dam Length

280

River Or Stream

Lovills Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

706

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

29.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.