Rhyne Mills Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Rhyne Mills Dam #1 is a private-owned hydroelectric structure located on the South Fork Catawba River in Lincolnton, North Carolina.
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Summary
With a structural height of 20.4 feet and a length of 150 feet, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of generating hydroelectric power. The dam has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and sits within a drainage area of 299,520 square miles.
Despite being categorized as low hazard potential, Rhyne Mills Dam #1 has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in September 2014. The dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, and inspection frequency is recorded as 0. While there have been no reports of modifications or emergency action plans associated with this dam, its presence on the South Fork Catawba River contributes to the local water resource management and climate considerations in the region.
As an intriguing feature along the waterways of North Carolina, Rhyne Mills Dam #1 provides a unique perspective for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its role in hydroelectric power generation, alongside its structural design and storage capacity, adds to the diverse landscape of dams within the state. With a low hazard potential and a history of regular inspections, this dam stands as a testament to the balance between energy production and environmental stewardship in the region.
Dam Length |
150 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Catawba River |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
20 |
Drainage Area |
299520 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
20.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Indian Creek Near Laboratory
|
28cfs |
Long Creek Near Bessemer City
|
12cfs |
Killian Creek Near Mariposa
|
10cfs |
South Fork Catawba River At Lowell
|
356cfs |
Long Creek Nr Rhyne
|
43cfs |
Mcdowell Creek Nr Charlotte
|
17cfs |
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.
Rhyne Mills Dam #1