W. Reynolds Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

W.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Reynolds Dam, located in Devotion, North Carolina, along the Long Creek, is a private concrete gravity dam primarily used for recreation. With a structural height of 34 feet and a hydraulic height of 30 feet, this dam provides important water storage of 47.6 acre-feet for the surrounding area. The dam covers a surface area of 3.5 acres and has a drainage area of 525 square miles, making it a significant water resource in Surry County.

Despite its recreational value, W. Reynolds Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, although its condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in May 2018. The dam is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is properly maintained. With a history dating back to its completion year and continuous updates to emergency action plans, W. Reynolds Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, W. Reynolds Dam serves not only as a recreational spot but also as a vital storage reservoir for the community. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, this dam remains a key asset in the region's water resource management efforts. Its significance lies not only in its structural design and purpose but also in its contribution to the overall water security and climate resilience of Surry County.

Dam Length

112

River Or Stream

Long Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

525

Nid Storage

47.6

Structural Height

34

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

34
       
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.