Sidden Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sidden Lower Dam Air Bellows Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sidden Upper Dam, located in Traphill, North Carolina, is a private dam owned and managed for recreational purposes.
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Summary
Situated on Double Creek-Tr, this Earth-type dam has a hydraulic height of 22.8 feet and a structural height of 25.8 feet, providing a storage capacity of 12 acre-feet. With a surface area of 1.3 acres and a drainage area of 53 square miles, this dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the region.
The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, although its condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated." Despite not being state-regulated, Sidden Upper Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last inspection conducted in December 2020. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are not indicated in the available data, suggesting a potential area for further investigation by water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the safety and sustainability of this important infrastructure.
As a key feature in the local landscape, Sidden Upper Dam provides both recreational opportunities and water resource management benefits. With its location in Wilkes County, North Carolina, and its association with the Huntington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of human infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and climate resilience in the region. Further research and monitoring of Sidden Upper Dam can contribute valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing water resources and climate adaptation efforts in the area.
Dam Length |
225 |
River Or Stream |
Double Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.8 |
Drainage Area |
53 |
Nid Storage |
12 |
Structural Height |
25.8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
Yadkin River At Wilkesboro
|
423cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
717cfs |
South Fork New River Near Jefferson
|
254cfs |
New River Near Galax
|
987cfs |
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.
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Sidden Upper Dam