NC0005363_Dam Rupture_20001221

To:
From:
Date:
FRO Files
Belinda Henson
December December 21, 2000
Subject: Dam Rupture at CP&L Weatherspoon Facility
Permit # NC0005363
Robeson County
On December 18, 2000 I accompanied staff members: Toby Vinson and Kenny McMillan of the
Land Quality Section to the CP&L Weatherspoon Facility. Land Quality staff had been contacted
concerning a rupture of the dam in the ash pond. CP&L staff (Louise England and James
Bodiford) met with us and explained that a contingency plan will be completed to eliminate this
type of occurrence in the future. The investigation resulted in the following: Early AM hours of
Sunday December 17, 2000 strong winds began a wave action in the ash pond. Strong waves
pushed water with pressure towards the dam and washed it away. Some wastewater and ash
washed over the side of the pond and onto the ground toward the location of the railroad. It
appeared that none of the water reached the receiving stream (Jacobs Swamp). Land Quality
issues were discussed during the investigation by staff. A report will be sent explaining a plan to
eliminate future occurrences of this nature.
bsh