E.M. Johnson Detention Basin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

Johnson Detention Basin is a state-regulated water resource located in Wake, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Raleigh. The basin serves as a vital component in managing stormwater runoff from an unnamed tributary, with the primary purpose being categorized as 'Other.' The facility is overseen by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite lacking specific details on dam height, volume, or storage capacity, the basin is deemed to have a significant hazard potential, highlighting its crucial role in flood control and water management within the region. Although the condition assessment is listed as 'Not Rated,' the facility undergoes regular inspections every two years to address any potential risks or issues that may arise. E.M. Johnson Detention Basin stands as a key infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding area from flood events and ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in Wake County.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the E.M. Johnson Detention Basin offers valuable insight into the intricate network of infrastructure dedicated to managing stormwater and protecting communities from potential flooding. With its state-regulated status and oversight by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, the basin plays a critical role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the region's water resources. Despite the lack of specific structural details, the facility's significant hazard potential underscores its importance in mitigating flood risks and maintaining the integrity of the local watershed. By understanding and appreciating the role of facilities like E.M. Johnson Detention Basin, we can better appreciate the complex interplay between water management, climate resilience, and community safety.

River Or Stream

Unnamed Tributary

Hazard Potential

Significant
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.