Marimont Lower Dam

Muddy Creek· McDowell, North Carolina· Built 1965· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Marimont Lower Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length365 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage40 acre-ft
Normal Storage15 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDNC00102

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: March 30, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

McDowell County

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Marimont Lower Dam?

Marimont Lower 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 Marimont Lower Dam?

Marimont Lower Dam is owned by McDowell County (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Marimont Lower Dam built?

Marimont Lower Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Marimont Lower Dam?

Marimont Lower 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 Marimont Lower Dam last inspected?

Marimont Lower Dam was last inspected on March 30, 2022. 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.