Jordon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jordon Dam, located in Surry, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This earthen dam on the Ararat River-Tr is regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a hydraulic height of 15.9 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, Jordon Dam offers a storage capacity of 11 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 7.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.2 acres.

Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, Jordon Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of the latest inspection in December 2020. The dam has a spillway width and outlet gates, providing additional safety measures in case of emergencies. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities for visitors, making Jordon Dam not only a vital water resource structure but also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Mount Airy and beyond. With its picturesque location and importance for water management, Jordon Dam stands as a key feature in the region's landscape.

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Ararat River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.2

Hydraulic Height

15.9

Nid Storage

11

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.