Cotton Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cotton Pond Dam, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a structural height of 14 feet and stretches 273 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 14 acre-feet. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is inspected periodically to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam is situated along the Stirrup Iron Creek-Tr river and is managed by private owners.

Despite its non-state regulated status, Cotton Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last recorded inspection of the dam was conducted in March 1993, indicating a need for updated assessments to ensure the safety of the surrounding area. The dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," suggesting a potential risk that should be addressed through proper risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cotton Pond Dam serves as a noteworthy structure in the region, offering insights into irrigation practices and dam management. With its location in a private setting and historical lack of state regulation, the dam presents a unique case study for understanding the importance of monitoring and maintaining infrastructure to prevent potential hazards. As discussions around water resource management continue, Cotton Pond Dam stands as a reminder of the need for ongoing assessment and risk mitigation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

273

River Or Stream

Stirrup Iron Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

14

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.