Robert E. Lee Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Robert E.


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Summary

Lee Dam, located in Murfreesboro, North Carolina, along the Meherrin River-Tr, was completed in 1985 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of irrigation. This earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16.6 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, with a length of 380 feet and a storage capacity of 93 acre-feet. The dam serves as a vital water resource for the region, supporting irrigation and recreation activities while also contributing to the conservation of the surrounding environment.

The dam is owned privately and is not regulated by the state, although it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam plays a crucial role in water management and flood control in the area. Despite being uncontrolled, the spillway and outlet gates of the dam help manage water flow effectively, while the surrounding soil foundation and stone core provide stability to the structure.

Overall, Robert E. Lee Dam stands as a key infrastructure for water resource management in North Carolina, offering essential support for irrigation and recreational activities along the Meherrin River-Tr. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water supply reliability and environmental conservation in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of well-maintained dams like Robert E. Lee Dam in sustainable water management practices becomes increasingly evident.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

380

River Or Stream

Meherrin River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

16.6

Drainage Area

310

Nid Storage

93

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.