Cape Fear 1978 Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Cape Fear 1978 Ash Basin Dam, located in Chatham, North Carolina, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the OS-Deep River.


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Summary

As a public utility-owned dam regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, it plays a significant role in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding area. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam has been inspected regularly, with the most recent assessment taking place in March 2020 to guarantee its structural integrity.

This Earth-type dam, completed in 1978, stands as a vital component in the flood risk reduction efforts in the region. With a high hazard potential, it is essential for the dam to be closely monitored and maintained to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the community. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are aspects that are continuously evaluated and updated to meet regulatory guidelines and enhance overall preparedness.

The Cape Fear 1978 Ash Basin Dam's role in protecting the area from flooding highlights the critical importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and maintenance of such infrastructure is key to understanding the broader impact of these structures on the environment and local communities. Through ongoing inspections and risk assessments, the dam serves as a vital asset in safeguarding against natural disasters and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the region.

River Or Stream

OS-Deep River

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.