Allen Active Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Gaston, North Carolina, the Allen Active Ash Basin Dam is a public utility structure designed to regulate the Catawba River-Os.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1972, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 70 feet with a hydraulic height of 58.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 1259 acre-feet and a drainage area of 293 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The Allen Active Ash Basin Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of October 2020. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure its safety and effectiveness. With a normal storage capacity of 236 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 275 cubic feet per second, this dam provides vital flood control and water management services to the surrounding areas, contributing to the overall resilience of the region in the face of changing climate patterns.

As a key infrastructure piece in the water resource management system of North Carolina, the Allen Active Ash Basin Dam is regulated by state agencies such as NCDEQ and DEMLR's Dam Safety Program. With its strategic location in the Red River city and its critical role in the region's water infrastructure, this dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

5470

River Or Stream

Catawba River-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

159

Hydraulic Height

58.5

Drainage Area

293

Nid Storage

1259

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.