South Mountain State Park Dam, also known as Broughton Hospital Dam, is located in Morganton, North Carolina, on Clear Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1950, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 56.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 38.5 feet, serving a primary purpose of recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 610 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1,620 acres, making it a significant water resource for the area.
Despite its recreational value, South Mountain State Park Dam has been flagged with a high hazard potential and rated as being in poor condition during the latest assessment in January 2021. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with regular inspections conducted every two years. With a history of modifications or upgrades, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plans are essential to ensure public safety and the protection of surrounding communities in case of a potential failure.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in South Mountain State Park Dam can appreciate its unique location within a state park setting, providing both recreational opportunities and vital water storage for the region. The dam's historical significance, combined with its current condition assessment and risk profile, offer a compelling case study for understanding the complexities of managing and maintaining critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing regulatory scrutiny.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
1500 |
River Or Stream |
Clear Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
38.5 |
Drainage Area |
1620 |
Nid Storage |
610 |
Structural Height |
56.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
57 |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
51cfs |
Jacob Fork At Ramsey
|
17cfs |
Linville River Near Nebo
|
75cfs |
Johns River At Arneys Store
|
173cfs |
Catawba R Nr Pleasant Gardens
|
121cfs |
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
58cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Murray Branch Campground
|
||
Fox Trail Campground
|
||
Shinny Falls Campground
|
||
Sawtooth Campground
|
||
Upper Falls Campground
|
||
Little River Campground
|