Horton's Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horton's Pond Dam, located in Chatham, North Carolina, is a state-regulated structure with a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment.


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Summary

While details about its design and dimensions are not provided, the dam is associated with Mill Branch and Jordan Lake, serving a primary purpose that falls under the "Other" category. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program and has undergone recent inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite the lack of specific information on the dam's features, its location and purpose make it a crucial component of the water resource management system in the area. With a high hazard potential, maintaining the integrity and safety of Horton's Pond Dam is essential for mitigating risks and protecting downstream communities and ecosystems from potential flooding events. The dam's last inspection in February 2021 found its condition to be fair, prompting continued monitoring and potential risk management measures to be considered in the future.

As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Horton's Pond Dam serves as a key structure in the local watershed, affecting the flow and management of water in the region. Its presence highlights the importance of proper dam maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in North Carolina. The dam's association with Mill Branch and Jordan Lake underscores its role in regulating water levels and mitigating flood risks, making it a significant focal point for ongoing environmental and infrastructure management efforts.

River Or Stream

MIll Branch and Jordan Lake

Hazard Potential

High
       
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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.