Brighterwood Crossing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Guilford County, North Carolina, the Brighterwood Crossing Dam is a state-regulated structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.


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Summary

Situated along the Cape Fear and Rocky Creek, this dam is owned by a non-listed entity and falls under the jurisdiction of the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a high hazard potential and a recent inspection frequency of every two years, the dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last assessment in January 2021.

While details on the dam's specific characteristics such as height, volume, and storage capacity are not provided, its primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its significance beyond traditional water supply or flood control functions. Despite the lack of specific information on the structure's design and construction, its presence underscores the importance of effective dam management and regulatory oversight in safeguarding communities and the environment from potential hazards. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the Brighterwood Crossing Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role infrastructure plays in adapting to and mitigating the effects of a changing climate.

River Or Stream

Cape Fear and Rocky 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.