The Allen Retention Basin Dam, located in Gaston, North Carolina, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Catawba River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 2018, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 22 feet with a hydraulic height of 15.5 feet, offering a maximum storage capacity of 89 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is to mitigate potential flooding in the area, safeguarding the surrounding communities from hazardous inundation events.
Managed by a public utility entity, the Allen Retention Basin Dam is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its operational efficiency and structural integrity. The dam has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the latest inspection in October 2020, with a high hazard potential due to its location and function. With a drainage area that spans approximately 8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Overall, the Allen Retention Basin Dam represents a vital component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential flood control measures and contributing to the overall safety and well-being of the community. As climate change continues to pose challenges in terms of extreme weather events, the presence of well-maintained dams like Allen Retention Basin plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of floods and ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
2018 |
Dam Length |
510 |
River Or Stream |
Catawba |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.5 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |