Mayo Lake Dam

Mayo Creek· Person, North Carolina· Earth·
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Other Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Mayo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length2,600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage142.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage88.0K acre-ft
Surface Area2,800 acres
Drainage Area54 sq mi
Max Discharge66,100 cfs
NID IDNC06002

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 18, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Duke Energy Corporation

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mayo Lake Dam?

Mayo Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Mayo Lake Dam?

Mayo Lake Dam is owned by Duke Energy Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Mayo Lake Dam?

Mayo Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Mayo Lake Dam last inspected?

Mayo Lake Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2023. 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.