Roxboro West Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Person County, North Carolina, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Dam stands as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the OS-Hyco River.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this earth dam has a hydraulic height of 62.4 feet and a structural height of 70 feet, with a storage capacity of 5567 acre-feet and a surface area of 240 acres. The dam serves as a vital defense against potential flooding in the region, providing a sense of security for the surrounding communities.

Managed by a public utility and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent assessment occurring in September 2019. The dam's Emergency Action Plan is in place, ensuring that appropriate measures are ready to be implemented in case of an emergency. With its significant role in flood risk reduction, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Dam remains a critical component of water resource management in North Carolina.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Dam serves as a prime example of infrastructure designed to mitigate flood risks and protect communities from potential disasters. Its strategic location along the OS-Hyco River, efficient storage capacity, and ongoing regulatory oversight highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring such crucial structures. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, dams like Roxboro West Ash Basin play a vital role in safeguarding lives and property, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in action.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1360

River Or Stream

OS-Hyco River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

240

Hydraulic Height

62.4

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

5567

Structural Height

70

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

70
       
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.