Pcs Phosphate #1a Cooling Pond Dike Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Pcs Phosphate #1a Cooling Pond Dike in Beaufort, North Carolina serves a crucial function in water resource management, as it is a state-regulated dam designed for offstream water storage.


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Summary

Completed in 2009, this earth dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. Its primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating its importance in supporting the surrounding ecosystem and maintaining water levels for industrial use.

Owned by a private entity, this cooling pond dike falls under the jurisdiction of the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program for regulatory oversight, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Located within the Wilmington District, it plays a vital role in water storage and management in the region. Despite not having specific dimensions or storage capacities listed, the dam's maintenance and monitoring are up to date, with inspections taking place every two years to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

For enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the Pcs Phosphate #1a Cooling Pond Dike presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its presence in an offstream location, high hazard potential, and fair condition assessment raise questions about the challenges and responsibilities involved in maintaining and regulating such critical water structures. As climate change continues to impact water resources globally, understanding the state of dams like this one is essential for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water systems in the face of evolving environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2009

River Or Stream

Offstream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

High
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.