Biggers Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Biggers Dam Lower, located in Gaston, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, situated on the South Crowders Creek, has a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, with a length of 250 feet. It has a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.75 acres.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Biggers Dam Lower is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to maintain its fair condition assessment. The dam's last inspection took place in November 2020, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. While the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared, it meets guidelines for risk management, although specific risk assessment and inundation maps are yet to be completed.

Overall, Biggers Dam Lower presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of private dam ownership in providing recreational opportunities while also highlighting the regulatory oversight and maintenance required to ensure public safety and environmental protection. With its scenic location and relatively low hazard potential, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and natural resources in our changing climate landscape.

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

South Crowders Creek- Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.75

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.