C. L. White Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

L. White Dam, located in Surry, North Carolina, along Snow Creek, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes. Built in 1982 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 21.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 172 acre-feet, the dam services a drainage area of 1300 acres and has a normal storage of 48 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, C. L. White Dam is subject to inspections by state authorities, with the last inspection conducted in December 2012. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 879 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area covers 10 acres, providing a crucial water resource for agricultural activities in the region.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, C. L. White Dam plays a vital role in water management and agricultural sustainability in the area. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, it is essential for stakeholders and climate enthusiasts to monitor the dam's condition and implement appropriate risk management measures to ensure its continued safe operation.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

263

River Or Stream

Snow Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15.5

Drainage Area

1300

Nid Storage

172

Structural Height

21.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.