Coleridge Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coleridge, a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in Randolph, North Carolina, has been a vital structure in harnessing the power of the Deep River since its completion in 1913.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 12 feet with a gravity design, this multi-arch dam boasts a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 9353 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, Coleridge serves as a crucial part of the region's water resource infrastructure.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Coleridge's primary purpose is hydroelectric generation, providing clean and renewable energy to the surrounding area. With a spillway width of 600 feet and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam ensures proper water flow and management during times of high discharge. Although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," the dam's risk assessment is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation.

As a significant feature in the region's water resource landscape, Coleridge highlights the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources. With its historical significance, engineering marvel, and environmental impact, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Deep

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

391

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

15
       
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.