Poston Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Poston Park Dam, located in Gaston, North Carolina, along Houser Branch, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 2010, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 32.4 feet and a structural height of 44 feet, with a length of 633 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 142 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 325 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of January 2020, Poston Park Dam poses a high hazard potential, making regular inspections a crucial aspect of its maintenance. The inspection frequency is set at every two years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. In case of emergencies, it is important for the community to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, although details on its preparation and last revision date are currently unavailable. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4091 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a significant role in managing water flow and ensuring the protection of downstream areas.

With its strategic location in Lowell and its role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management, Poston Park Dam stands as a key infrastructure in Gaston County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and monitoring of dams like Poston Park are essential to safeguarding both the environment and the community's well-being.

Year Completed

2010

Dam Length

633

River Or Stream

Houser Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

32.4

Drainage Area

873

Nid Storage

325

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.