River Road Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

River Road Dam, located in Montgomery County, North Carolina, is a key structure on Big Island Creek primarily designed for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

While the dam does not have a designated height or volume, its presence enhances the recreational opportunities in the area, attracting enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its compliance with state regulations and safety standards.

Despite its importance for recreation, River Road Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition, as assessed during the last inspection in October 2020. This raises concerns about the safety of the structure and the surrounding area in the event of a dam failure. With a high hazard potential, it is crucial for authorities to closely monitor and address any issues to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to the site.

Given the dam's condition assessment and hazard potential, it is imperative for stakeholders to prioritize the maintenance and potential rehabilitation of River Road Dam. By implementing risk management measures and regular inspections, authorities can mitigate the potential risks associated with the dam, safeguarding both the environment and the community. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is essential to stay informed about the status of River Road Dam and advocate for proper management to preserve the recreational opportunities it offers while ensuring public safety.

River Or Stream

Big Island Creek

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.