The Uwharrie region refers to the lakes created when dams were erected on the Yadkin River, the second largest river in the state. The commission attends to issues of economic development and land use for the area, which includes Davidson, Stanly, Anson, Rowan, Montgomery, and Richmond counties. 

 

A big issue of interest to the commission is the state's desire to take over the hydroelectric plants owned by Alcoa along the Yadkin River. The company is seeking a 50-year renewal of its federal license.