Rhodhiss

Catawba· Caldwell, North Carolina· Built 1925· Gravity· 72 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Rhodhiss is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 Height 72 ft (taller than 72.8% in NC)
Dam Length675 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage27.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage27.6K acre-ft
Surface Area3,515 acres
Drainage Area1,120 sq mi
Max Discharge500,000 cfs
Year Completed1925 (101 years old)
NID IDNC00104

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: June 13, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Duke Energy

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rhodhiss?

Rhodhiss 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 Rhodhiss?

Rhodhiss is owned by Duke Energy (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rhodhiss built?

Rhodhiss was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Rhodhiss?

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

How tall is Rhodhiss?

Rhodhiss has a dam height of 72 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Rhodhiss last inspected?

Rhodhiss was last inspected on June 13, 2022. 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.