White Oak Mtn. Dam #2 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
White Oak Mtn.
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Summary
Dam #2 is a privately owned recreational dam located in Columbus, North Carolina, on Horse Creek. This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 21.4 feet, provides a surface area of 2.8 acres and a drainage area of 210 acres. With a maximum discharge of 148 cubic feet per second, the dam has a high hazard potential but is currently rated as satisfactory in condition.
Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, White Oak Mtn. Dam #2 has a normal storage capacity of 17 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 39 acre-feet. The dam, completed in an unspecified year, serves primarily for recreational purposes and is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. With its last inspection conducted in March 2020 and a satisfactory condition assessment, the dam continues to provide essential water resource management and recreational opportunities for the local community.
Situated in the scenic Polk County, White Oak Mtn. Dam #2 offers a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreation and relaxation. With its strategic location, state regulation, and satisfactory condition, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water management while also providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to appreciate the beauty of Horse Creek and its surrounding natural landscapes.
Dam Length |
290 |
River Or Stream |
Horse Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
210 |
Nid Storage |
39 |
Structural Height |
21.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
White Oak Mtn. Dam #2