Faircloth Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Faircloth Lake Dam, located in Bynum, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet. It holds a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and serves the Wilkinson Creek-Tr river system. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in February 2012, with a satisfactory condition assessment.

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Faircloth Lake Dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with guidelines. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps preparation are currently not available. The surrounding area offers a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The dam's risk management measures and potential environmental impacts remain unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Faircloth Lake Dam presents a unique study in private ownership and state regulation. With its historical significance and recreational value, this dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and community. Continued attention to its maintenance, emergency preparedness, and risk assessment will be crucial in ensuring the safety and sustainability of this water resource in Chatham County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Wilkinson Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.