Benfield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Benfield Dam, also known as Cobb Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Caldwell, North Carolina, along the Angley Creek-Os river system.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 26 feet, the dam has a hazard potential rated as high and a poor condition assessment.

The dam, with a storage capacity of 11 acre-feet and a drainage area of 60 acres, features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. Despite its critical role in providing fire protection and water storage, the dam's condition raises concerns with a risk assessment rating it as moderate (3). The last inspection in January 2021 highlighted the need for maintenance and potentially increased oversight to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure for both water resource management and climate-related purposes.

With the dam being regulated and inspected by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, it is essential for stakeholders and water resource enthusiasts to stay updated on any developments or improvements to mitigate risks associated with this crucial infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proactive management and maintenance of structures like Benfield Dam are vital for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

River Or Stream

Angley Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

60

Nid Storage

11

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.