Ararat Rock Products Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Ararat Rock Products Dam, located in Ararat, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure primarily designed for debris control along the Ararat River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, the dam spans 670 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to prevent debris accumulation and ensure the smooth flow of water in the river.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and not rated for condition assessment, the dam is inspected regularly, with the last inspection conducted in April 2016. The dam is not state-regulated or permitted, but it is subject to state inspections to ensure its functionality and safety. The surrounding area has a normal storage capacity of 45.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.7 acres, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

In the event of emergencies, it is unclear whether an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place or if it meets the regulatory guidelines. With its strategic location in Surry County, North Carolina, the Ararat Rock Products Dam plays a vital role in maintaining water quality and mitigating potential risks associated with debris accumulation in the Ararat River. Its presence highlights the importance of private ownership in managing and preserving water resources in a sustainable manner.

Dam Length

670

River Or Stream

Ararat River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.7

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

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.