Bynum Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bynum is a privately owned hydroelectric dam located in the city of Bynum, North Carolina, along the Haw River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1874, this gravity dam stands at 13 feet high with a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a length of 900 feet. With a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 18,000 cubic feet per second, Bynum Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water resource management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bynum Dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's spillway width of 750 feet and uncontrolled spillway type further highlight its importance in mitigating flood risks and managing water flow in the area.

Despite not being state regulated, Bynum Dam plays a crucial role in providing hydroelectric power and water storage for the region. With its historical significance dating back over a century, this structure stands as a testament to the ingenuity and engineering prowess of the past, while continuing to serve as a vital resource for water and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable energy solutions.

Year Completed

1874

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

Haw River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1290

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

18
       
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.