Holtrachem Stormwater Waste Lagoon Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Holtrachem Stormwater Waste Lagoon, located in Riegelwood, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality and the Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

This earth dam was completed in 1995 and serves a primary purpose of managing stormwater waste. With a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, this lagoon poses a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition as of its last inspection in 2018.

Sitting along the Cape Fear River, the Holtrachem Stormwater Waste Lagoon plays a crucial role in mitigating water pollution and ensuring proper waste management in the region. Its design and construction fall under the jurisdiction of state regulators, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to maintain its integrity and safety standards. Despite its high hazard potential, the lagoon's condition has been deemed satisfactory, providing assurance to local residents and environmental enthusiasts.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Holtrachem Stormwater Waste Lagoon presents a unique case study in the intersection of industrial waste management, environmental regulation, and dam safety. Its location, design, and purpose underscore the importance of responsible water resource management in safeguarding our natural ecosystems and public health. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, this lagoon serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between industrial needs and environmental stewardship in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

1000

River Or Stream

Cape Fear River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.