9 Investigates: Data reveals N.C. ranks second in high-hazard dams

BELMONT, N.C. — North Carolina ranks second in the nation for the number of dams classified as high-hazard, according to federal data created in 2013.

High-hazard does not refer to the condition of the dam but instead means a failure could result in loss of life or serious damage. However, a study of North Carolina's dams found more than 100 that are both high-hazard and classified as in poor or unsatisfactory condition.

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Channel 9's review of the information comes a week after historic flooding led to at least 18 dam breaches across South Carolina. There are more than five times as many high-hazard dams in North Carolina as South Carolina.

There are 18 North Carolina dams in the Channel 9 viewing area that are high-hazard and either in poor or unsatisfactory condition, according to state data.

Brad Haney was one of several neighbors in Belmont who were unaware the Paradise Point Dam, a high-hazard dam, was near their homes.

"If the dam were to break, it washes that road out and it could be very bad out here," Haney said.

A 2013 infrastructure study by the American Society of Civil Engineers gave North Carolina a D when it comes to grading the state's maintenance of its dams. The report estimated it would take $1.9 billion to rehabilitate the state's non-federally owned and privately owned dams.

The report also credited recent progress in the state in managing dams. The progress has continued since the report.

Currently, 46 percent of dams in the state do not have an Emergency Action Plan in case there is an emergency. The low percentage can be attributed to North Carolina's lack of requirement for EAPs.

However, the Coal Ash Management Act of 2014 included a new requirement for EAPs. Dam owners have now until Dec. 31 to submit an EAP.

A representative with the Association of State Dam Safety Officials said North Carolina is not a problem state. It does, however, stand out for the large number of high-hazard dams.

"There are a lot of dams in the state and a really high percentage of those dams are high hazard potential," said Mark Ogden of the ASDSO.

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