Alberty Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Alberty Dam, located in Rockford, North Carolina, is a privately owned Earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 15.3 feet and a structural height of 16.7 feet, the dam impounds Bear Creek-Tr, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 13.4 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 12 acre-feet and a drainage area of 55 square miles, Alberty Dam provides a serene setting for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Alberty Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections and maintenance. The dam has a history of inspection dating back to January 2021, with a frequency of every two years to monitor its safety and structural integrity. Although no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared to date, the dam's risk management measures are under continuous evaluation to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

In the event of an emergency, the local community should be aware of the dam's hazard potential and contact appropriate authorities for assistance. With Alberty Dam's contribution to the recreational landscape of Surry County, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about its condition and management practices to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital water resource in North Carolina.

Dam Length

180

River Or Stream

Bear Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

15.3

Drainage Area

55

Nid Storage

13.4

Structural Height

16.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.