Mcfayden Lake
Key Takeaway
Mcfayden Lake is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 Height | 14 ft (taller than 13.6% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 400 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 65 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 52 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 70 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00031 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Fort LIberty
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Young's Lake
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Low Hazard 19 ftMckellars Lake (Lower)
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Low Hazard 12 ftLong Valley Farm Lake Dam
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Significant HazardCottonade Dam
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Low HazardOverhills No. 1
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Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mcfayden Lake?
Mcfayden Lake 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 Mcfayden Lake?
Mcfayden Lake is owned by Fort LIberty (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mcfayden Lake built?
Mcfayden Lake was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Mcfayden Lake?
Mcfayden Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Mcfayden Lake?
Mcfayden Lake has a dam height of 14 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Mcfayden Lake last inspected?
Mcfayden Lake was last inspected on February 15, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.