Phillips Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Phillips Lake Dam, located in Chatham, North Carolina, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

This privately owned Earth dam stands at a structural height of 25.3 feet and spans 225 feet in length, impounding Tyson Creek. The dam has a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.5 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition as it was last inspected in December 1997. The inspection frequency is listed as 0, indicating a need for more regular assessments to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. While the dam currently does not fall under state regulation or permitting, it is subject to periodic state inspections.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate may find Phillips Lake Dam intriguing due to its unique combination of uses and potential impact on the local ecosystem. As a key feature in the area, it is essential for stakeholders to monitor and maintain the dam to prevent any potential hazards and ensure a sustainable water resource for the community.

Dam Length

225

River Or Stream

Tyson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Nid Storage

35

Structural Height

25.3

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.