Phoenix Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Phoenix Pond Dam, located in Yancey, North Carolina, is a private Earth-type dam on Jacks Creek primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 17.1 feet and a structural height of 20.5 feet, the dam provides a surface area of 2 acres and a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program to ensure public safety.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Phoenix Pond Dam has a history of meeting state regulatory requirements, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's last inspection in January 2021 deemed its condition fair, indicating a need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential risks. With a designated emergency action plan and high hazard classification, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource while warranting careful attention to safety protocols.

As a key structure in the Wilmington District and under the jurisdiction of the NCDEQ, Phoenix Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its recreational purpose, the dam provides valuable opportunities for local residents and visitors, highlighting the importance of balancing human enjoyment with effective dam safety measures in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

196

River Or Stream

Jacks Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

17.1

Nid Storage

16

Structural Height

20.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.