Mountain Air Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mountain Air Dam, located in Cane River, North Carolina, serves as a crucial structure regulating the flow of Phipps Creek.


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Summary

Owned by unspecified entities, the dam falls under state jurisdiction and regulation by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a high hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition, posing potential risks to the surrounding area.

Despite lacking specific details on its design and purpose, Mountain Air Dam's presence underscores the importance of monitoring and maintaining water resources in the region. The dam's critical role in managing water flow and potential hazards highlights the need for regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures. As a part of the Wilmington District, the dam's significance extends beyond its immediate location to impact the broader environmental and climate considerations in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mountain Air Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and regulation. With its high hazard potential and state oversight, the dam serves as a focal point for discussions on risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and the broader implications of water infrastructure on local ecosystems. As efforts to address climate change intensify, understanding the complexities of structures like Mountain Air Dam becomes increasingly vital for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of water resources in North Carolina and beyond.

River Or Stream

Phipps Creek

Hazard Potential

High
       
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.