Dotson Pond Dam

Catawba River-Tr· Gaston, North Carolina· Built 1951· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Dotson Pond Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length206 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage18 acre-ft
Surface Area4 acres
Drainage Area206 sq mi
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDNC02598

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: December 15, 2021
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Dotson Holdings, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Dotson Pond Dam?

Dotson Pond Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Dotson Pond Dam?

Dotson Pond Dam is owned by Dotson Holdings, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Dotson Pond Dam built?

Dotson Pond Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Dotson Pond Dam?

Dotson Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Dotson Pond Dam last inspected?

Dotson Pond Dam was last inspected on December 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.