James Mcgroarty Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Mcgroarty Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves as a recreational water resource along the Mears Fork-Tr river.


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Summary

Completed in 2001, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 34.8 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28.6 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 37 acre-feet spread over a surface area of 4.5 acres, the dam contributes to the overall drainage area of 86 acres in the region.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, James Mcgroarty Dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in February 2018. The dam is equipped with emergency action plans, although details regarding their preparation and compliance with guidelines are not specified in the data. Despite the absence of spillway information, the dam's primary purpose of recreation underscores its importance as a water resource for the community, offering opportunities for leisure activities amidst a scenic environment.

The dam's location within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers contributes to its regulatory oversight and adherence to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols. With the dam's association solely for recreational purposes and its relatively low hazard potential, James Mcgroarty Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious integration of water resource management with public enjoyment, highlighting the significance of sustainable practices in safeguarding our natural environment for future generations of climate and water enthusiasts.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

223

River Or Stream

Mears Fork-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Hydraulic Height

28.6

Drainage Area

86

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

34.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.