Tar River Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Tar River Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 13.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 11.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 497,280 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 66 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00913 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
City of Rocky Mount
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Bone Lake Dam
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High HazardSilver Lake Dam
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Significant HazardPutney'S Lake Dam
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Low HazardWilson Country Club Dam
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High HazardCollins Lake Dam
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Low HazardFenner Lake Dam
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Tar River Reservoir Dam?
Tar River Reservoir 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 Tar River Reservoir Dam?
Tar River Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Rocky Mount (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Tar River Reservoir Dam built?
Tar River Reservoir Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Tar River Reservoir Dam?
Tar River Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Tar River Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Tar River Reservoir Dam was last inspected on May 5, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.