Ross Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ross Dam, located in Marshall, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 19.2 feet and a structural height of 21.7 feet, the dam stands at 120 feet long and has a normal storage capacity of 4.3 million gallons of water. The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a fair condition assessment as of February 2018.

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Ross Dam is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. Despite being a privately owned structure, it plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. With its picturesque location in Madison County, the dam serves as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities and natural beauty.

As one of the key infrastructure elements in the region, Ross Dam serves as a vital resource for both local residents and visitors. Its maintenance and regulation ensure the safety of nearby communities while also preserving the ecosystem and water resources for future generations. The dam's presence highlights the importance of sustainable water management and the integration of recreational facilities into natural landscapes.

Dam Length

120

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.5

Hydraulic Height

19.2

Nid Storage

5.5

Structural Height

21.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.