Henry River Dam

Henry Fork· Burke, North Carolina· Built 1902· Concrete·
High Hazard Hydroelectric Private

Key Takeaway

Henry River Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length180 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage77 acre-ft
Normal Storage64 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area50,760 sq mi
Max Discharge386 cfs
Year Completed1902 (124 years old)
NID IDNC00373

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 6, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Haneline Power LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Henry River Dam?

Henry River Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Henry River Dam?

Henry River Dam is owned by Haneline Power LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Henry River Dam built?

Henry River Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Henry River Dam?

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

When was Henry River Dam last inspected?

Henry River Dam was last inspected on January 6, 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.