Mother Earth Dam Lower
Key Takeaway
Mother Earth Dam Lower is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 104 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 723 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00196 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Jane Shuttleworth
Private
Nearby Dams
Mother Earth Dam Upper
Transylvania, NC
Significant HazardBass Lake Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardTurkey Pen Farm Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardLaurel Lake Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardLewis Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardGaither Pond Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardSalter Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardForge Mountain Grist Mill Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mother Earth Dam Lower?
Mother Earth Dam Lower 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 Mother Earth Dam Lower?
Mother Earth Dam Lower is owned by Jane Shuttleworth (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mother Earth Dam Lower built?
Mother Earth Dam Lower was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Mother Earth Dam Lower?
Mother Earth Dam Lower 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 Mother Earth Dam Lower last inspected?
Mother Earth Dam Lower was last inspected on January 15, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.