White Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pond Dam, located in Chatham, North Carolina, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. While it is not regulated by the state, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure its satisfactory condition.

The dam poses a significant hazard potential, given its purpose and design. Despite this, the condition assessment in 2013 deemed it satisfactory. With no emergency action plan in place and limited risk assessment measures, there are concerns about the potential impact in case of an unforeseen event. The surrounding Roberson Creek-Tr area and the community relying on the dam for stock and fire protection highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the White Pond Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. The lack of state regulation and inadequate emergency preparedness raise questions about the resilience of such structures in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing risks of extreme weather events. It underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

River Or Stream

Roberson Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.