Ruth Bryan Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ruth Bryan Dam, also known as Bryan Dam, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Wayne County, North Carolina.
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Summary
Completed in 2000, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 13 feet with a hydraulic height of 8.2 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, it also offers recreational opportunities for the local community.
However, despite its importance, Ruth Bryan Dam has been classified with a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state regulations and enforcement protocols to mitigate potential risks to downstream communities.
As a crucial piece of water infrastructure in the region, Ruth Bryan Dam plays a significant role in water management and irrigation activities. Moving forward, it is imperative that the dam undergoes necessary repairs and improvements to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both irrigation and recreational purposes, in alignment with state regulatory standards and emergency preparedness guidelines.
Year Completed |
2000 |
Dam Length |
391 |
Hydraulic Height |
8.2 |
Nid Storage |
52 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
1460cfs |
Little River Near Princeton
|
84cfs |
Nahunta Swamp Near Shine
|
57cfs |
Bear Creek At Mays Store
|
98cfs |
Contentnea Creek Near Lucama
|
37cfs |
Neuse River Near Clayton
|
384cfs |
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.
Ruth Bryan Dam