Roxboro West Ash Basin Rock Filter Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Roxboro West Ash Basin Rock Filter Dam, also known as the Filter Dike, stands as a crucial structure in North Carolina's Person County to mitigate flood risks along the OS-Hyco River.


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this rockfill dam boasts a hydraulic height of 40 feet and a structural height of 51 feet, providing vital flood risk reduction measures for the region. With a storage capacity of 5,567 acre-feet and a surface area of 240 acres, this dam plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Managed by a public utility, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Rock Filter Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its continued safety and efficacy. The dam's satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2020 underscores its reliability in flood control efforts. Moreover, its high hazard potential highlights the critical role it plays in protecting downstream areas from potential inundation. With a history of regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan, the dam is well-prepared to address any unforeseen challenges and ensure the safety of nearby residents and infrastructure.

Located in the Wilmington District and under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, the Roxboro West Ash Basin Rock Filter Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in the region. With a storied history of successful flood mitigation and a commitment to ongoing safety assessments, this rockfill dam serves as a vital component of the local water resource management system. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this structure represents a prime example of how strategic infrastructure can help safeguard communities in the face of environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

1194

River Or Stream

OS-Hyco River

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

240

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

5567

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

51
       
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.