Rochelle Lake Dam

Roanoke River· Halifax, North Carolina· Built 1960· Earth·
Significant Hazard Irrigation Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Rochelle Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length450 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage130 acre-ft
Normal Storage108 acre-ft
Surface Area9 acres
Drainage Area550 sq mi
Max Discharge303 cfs
Year Completed1960 (66 years old)
NID IDNC00835

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: Yes
Last Inspection: November 17, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

City of Roanoke Rapids

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Rochelle Lake Dam?

Rochelle Lake 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 Rochelle Lake Dam?

Rochelle Lake Dam is owned by City of Roanoke Rapids (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Rochelle Lake Dam built?

Rochelle Lake Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Rochelle Lake Dam?

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

When was Rochelle Lake Dam last inspected?

Rochelle Lake Dam was last inspected on November 17, 2021. 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.