Cherry Ridge Dam

Puzzle Creek· Rutherford, North Carolina· Built 1999· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Cherry Ridge Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1999 and is 27 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length450 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage109 acre-ft
Normal Storage88 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area200 sq mi
Year Completed1999 (27 years old)
NID IDNC05460

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: February 23, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

David J Taylor

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cherry Ridge Dam?

Cherry Ridge Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Cherry Ridge Dam?

Cherry Ridge Dam is owned by David J Taylor (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cherry Ridge Dam built?

Cherry Ridge Dam was completed in 1999, making it 27 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Cherry Ridge Dam?

Cherry Ridge Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Cherry Ridge Dam last inspected?

Cherry Ridge Dam was last inspected on February 23, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.