Richard Allen Dam

Laurel Branch· Cherokee, North Carolina· Built 1981· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Richard Allen Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1981 and is 45 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length125 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage25 acre-ft
Normal Storage10 acre-ft
Year Completed1981 (45 years old)
NID IDNC02107

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: May 12, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Garcher of Vero Beach, Inc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Richard Allen Dam?

Richard Allen 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 Richard Allen Dam?

Richard Allen Dam is owned by Garcher of Vero Beach, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Richard Allen Dam built?

Richard Allen Dam was completed in 1981, making it 45 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 Richard Allen Dam?

Richard Allen 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 Richard Allen Dam last inspected?

Richard Allen Dam was last inspected on May 12, 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.