Richey Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lazy G Ranch Dam #2 Norman Boger Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Richey Lake, located in Tyro, North Carolina, is a privately owned water resource primarily used for fire protection, stocking fish, and as a small fish pond.
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Summary
The lake is situated along the Yadkin River-Tr and falls under the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a maximum storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 14.4 acre-feet, Richey Lake covers a surface area of 2 acres and has a hydraulic height of 18 feet.
The dam at Richey Lake is an earth-type structure with a structural height of 25 feet and a length of 165 feet. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition as the last inspection took place in January 2015. The lake's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unknown, highlighting the need for updated information to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Richey Lake presents an intriguing case study in the management of small-scale dams for multiple purposes. With its location in Davidson County, North Carolina, the lake plays a vital role in local water conservation efforts and provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with maintaining such infrastructure in a changing climate. As interest in sustainable water resource management grows, Richey Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the continued health of our water ecosystems.
Dam Length |
165 |
River Or Stream |
Yadkin River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Yadkin River At Yadkin College
|
1340cfs |
Second Creek Near Barber
|
41cfs |
South Yadkin River Near Mocksville
|
230cfs |
Abbotts Creek At Lexington
|
31cfs |
Hunting Creek Near Harmony
|
93cfs |
Yadkin River At Enon
|
1080cfs |
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.
Richey Lake
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