Holden Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Holden Dam, located in Colletsville, North Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 25.1 feet in structural height, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 3 acre-feet and a surface area of 0.3 acres. It is situated on an unnamed tributary to the Mulberry River, within the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

Despite its recreational purpose, Holden Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The last inspection in February 2021 revealed the dam's structural integrity to be in need of attention. With a high hazard potential, it is crucial for the private owner to address the dam's condition to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the environment.

Given its location in a scenic area with potential for outdoor activities, Holden Dam serves as a unique water resource for the region. However, its current state raises concerns regarding its long-term sustainability and safety. As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Holden Dam highlights the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and risk management measures to ensure the continued functionality and safety of dams in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

100

River Or Stream

unname trib to Mulberry

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.3

Hydraulic Height

24.5

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

3

Structural Height

25.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.