White Oak Mtn. Dam #4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
White Oak Mtn.
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Summary
Dam #4, located in Polk, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built on Horse Creek for recreational purposes. Standing at a structural height of 20 feet with a hydraulic height of 15.2 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.7 acres. With a drainage area of 102 square miles, the dam has the potential to discharge up to 159 cubic feet per second.
Despite its high hazard potential, White Oak Mtn. Dam #4 has been assessed as satisfactory in its condition, with the last inspection conducted in March 2020. The dam is regulated and permitted by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that state inspections, enforcement, and permitting are in place to maintain its safety and structural integrity. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are yet to be fully established, highlighting the need for preparedness in case of emergencies related to the dam's operations.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and safety of dams, particularly in the context of recreational activities, can find White Oak Mtn. Dam #4 an intriguing case study. The dam's location in Columbus, North Carolina, its association with Horse Creek, and its high hazard potential add layers of complexity to understanding the balance between recreational benefits and the need for stringent regulatory oversight to mitigate risks associated with dam failure. As the dam continues to be monitored and inspected regularly, it serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources and surrounding communities.
Dam Length |
300 |
River Or Stream |
Horse Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.2 |
Drainage Area |
102 |
Nid Storage |
22 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
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 #4