Muddy Creek Dam #8
Key Takeaway
Muddy Creek Dam #8 is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 years old. 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 Length | 565 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 250 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 84 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Max Discharge | 6,800 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00172 |
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
McDowell Soil and Water Conservation District
Local Government
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Muddy Creek Dam #8?
Muddy Creek Dam #8 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 Muddy Creek Dam #8?
Muddy Creek Dam #8 is owned by McDowell Soil and Water Conservation District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Muddy Creek Dam #8 built?
Muddy Creek Dam #8 was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Muddy Creek Dam #8?
Muddy Creek Dam #8 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Muddy Creek Dam #8 last inspected?
Muddy Creek Dam #8 was last inspected on March 13, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.