Regina Cecil Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Regina Cecil Dam, located in Iredell, North Carolina, along the South Yadkin River, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 2005, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 11.6 feet and a structural height of 14.8 feet, with a length of 465 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6.1 acres, serving as a picturesque spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities.

Although not regulated by the state, Regina Cecil Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in November 2016. Despite its lack of state enforcement, the dam is regularly inspected, with a frequency of zero indicating a need for increased monitoring and maintenance. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparedness remain uncertain, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and management to ensure public safety and environmental conservation in the surrounding area.

With a notable association with the South Yadkin River and its tributaries, Regina Cecil Dam provides a vital recreational space while also posing potential risks that require careful monitoring and management. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore this picturesque area, it is essential to recognize the dam's significance, potential hazards, and the need for improved risk assessment and emergency preparedness to safeguard both the environment and the community.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

465

River Or Stream

South Yadkin River - Trib.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.1

Hydraulic Height

11.6

Drainage Area

390

Nid Storage

59

Structural Height

14.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.