James Wright Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

James Wright Pond Dam, located in Johnston, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, with a structural height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes. Situated on Middle Creek and Beaver Dam Branch, the dam poses a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of December 2020.

Although the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With its proximity to Sanders Road and its significance in the local hydrological system, James Wright Pond Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area. As a key feature for recreation and water storage, the dam's management and maintenance are essential to safeguarding the environment and communities downstream.

River Or Stream

Middle Creek-Tr; Beaver Dam Br

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

442

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

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.