Dotson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dotson Pond Dam is a privately owned structure located in Gaston, North Carolina, along the Catawba River-Tr.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earthen dam stands at a structural height of 33 feet with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 3.5 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Despite not being state regulated, Dotson Pond Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2018. The dam has no outlet gates or associated structures, and there is no emergency action plan in place. With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, this dam serves as a valuable resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management for sustainable water resource management in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the beauty and functionality of Dotson Pond Dam, it becomes apparent that this structure plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks due to its significant hazard potential. With no state regulation or approved emergency action plan, there is a need for increased attention to the maintenance and assessment of this dam to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. By engaging in proactive risk management measures and implementing necessary improvements, Dotson Pond Dam can continue to be a valuable asset for water enthusiasts while safeguarding against potential hazards and promoting sustainable water resource management practices in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

206

River Or Stream

Catawba River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

206

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

33
       
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.