Matson Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Matson Dam, located in Guilford, North Carolina, serves primarily as a recreational structure along the Big Alamance Creek.
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Summary
With a structural height of 25.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 31 acre-feet, making it a vital resource for water storage and management in the area. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of 2013, the dam has not undergone recent inspections or updates, raising concerns about its long-term effectiveness and safety.
While Matson Dam does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulatory oversight, its importance in providing water storage and recreational opportunities cannot be understated. The dam's existence since an unknown completion date has allowed for the creation of a 3-acre surface area and a peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy. However, with no outlet gates or spillway type specified, questions remain about the dam's ability to manage potential flooding events or discharge excess water in a controlled manner.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the need to ensure the safety and efficiency of dams like Matson Dam becomes increasingly critical. With a focus on enhancing emergency preparedness, conducting regular inspections, and implementing risk management measures, stakeholders can work together to safeguard this important infrastructure and preserve its benefits for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Dam Length |
271 |
River Or Stream |
Big Alamance Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
31 |
Structural Height |
25.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Matson Dam