Knapp Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Knapp Dam, located in Union County, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, or as a small fish pond.
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Summary
Built on Richardson Creek, this earth dam with a stone core stands at a structural height of 25 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is to serve as a source of water for various needs while also contributing to fire protection in the area.
Although Knapp Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it has been inspected as of October 2016, with a moderate risk level of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While it does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation or permitting, the dam is subject to periodic inspections to monitor its condition and address any potential risks.
As an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure, Knapp Dam serves a vital role in the community for both water storage and fire protection purposes. With its moderate risk level and uncontrolled spillway, continued monitoring and maintenance are crucial to ensure the dam's long-term reliability and safety for surrounding areas dependent on its water resources.
River Or Stream |
Richardson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Knapp Dam