Buck Main Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in High Rock, North Carolina, the Buck Main Ash Basin Dam stands as a critical structure along the Yadkin River, serving a primary purpose of managing tailings.


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Summary

Built in 1957, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 51.5 feet and a structural height of 70 feet, with a length of 2384 feet and a storage capacity of 219 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition following a recent inspection in October 2020.

Owned by a Public Utility and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, the Buck Main Ash Basin Dam plays a pivotal role in water resource management in Rowan County. With a high hazard potential, this dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Its location within the Wilmington District underscores its importance in the overall water infrastructure of the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will appreciate the strategic placement and design of the Buck Main Ash Basin Dam, which not only helps in tailings management but also contributes to the overall water supply and flood control efforts in the area. Its presence highlights the ongoing need for effective dam safety programs and regulatory oversight to mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2384

River Or Stream

Yadkin River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.4

Hydraulic Height

51.5

Drainage Area

199

Nid Storage

219

Structural Height

70

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

70
       
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.