Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam

Buckhorn Creek· Chatham, North Carolina· Built 1983· Earth·
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1983 and is 43 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,550 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage153.2K acre-ft
Normal Storage72.2K acre-ft
Surface Area5,568 acres
Drainage Area45,440 sq mi
Max Discharge14,190 cfs
Year Completed1983 (43 years old)
NID IDNC06119

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
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Duke Energy Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam?

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main 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 Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam?

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam is owned by Duke Energy Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam built?

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam was completed in 1983, making it 43 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 Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam?

Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant Main Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

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.