Mirror Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mirror Lake Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a concrete structure standing at a height of 22 feet along the Cullasaja River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1958, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene and picturesque setting for visitors in the city of Highlands. With a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet and a surface area of 27 acres, Mirror Lake Dam provides a tranquil oasis for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of February 2020, Mirror Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and structural specifications. The dam is regulated by state authorities, including the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, ensuring that regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity and mitigate any potential risks. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan and risk assessment protocols are yet to be fully developed, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and management to safeguard the surrounding community and environment.

With its scenic beauty and recreational significance, Mirror Lake Dam stands as a notable landmark in Macon County, attracting visitors and locals alike to its peaceful waters and lush surroundings. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Mirror Lake Dam play a crucial role in preserving the natural landscape and ensuring the safety of those who enjoy its recreational offerings. By adhering to regulatory guidelines and implementing necessary risk management measures, Mirror Lake Dam can continue to provide a sustainable and enjoyable experience for water resource and climate enthusiasts for years to come.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

138

River Or Stream

Cullasaja River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

4250

Nid Storage

230

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.