Weatherspoon 1979 Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Weatherspoon 1979 Ash Basin Dam, located in Boardman, North Carolina, was completed in 1949 and is owned by a public utility.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a structural height of 28 feet and has a length of 6600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 932 acre-feet on the Lumber River. The dam is regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment reporting a fair condition and a high hazard potential.

Despite its age, the Weatherspoon 1979 Ash Basin Dam continues to serve its primary purpose as an essential infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. With a surface area of 56 acres and a history of modifications, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding community. Though it has been deemed to have a fair condition, ongoing risk assessments and management measures are in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the significance of the Weatherspoon 1979 Ash Basin Dam in maintaining the ecological balance and water supply in Robeson County, North Carolina. As a state-regulated and inspected dam, it showcases the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in ensuring the safety of such critical infrastructure. With its high hazard potential and fair condition, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities in managing water resources amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

6600

River Or Stream

Lumber

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

56

Nid Storage

932

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.