Muddy Creek #15 (Cooke) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Muddy Creek #15 (Cooke), also known as Cook Dam, is a vital structure located in McDowell, North Carolina, designed by USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction on Allen Mill Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 29 feet and a structural height of 46 feet, with a length of 370 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 230 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 144 acre-feet, Muddy Creek #15 plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

This dam is regulated by the NC Dam Safety Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensuring its safety and functionality. The hazard potential is classified as low, and the condition assessment as satisfactory, with the last inspection in April 2018. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Muddy Creek #15 is well-maintained and meets guidelines for emergency action plans, although specific details on risk management measures are not provided. Overall, this dam serves as a key asset in flood risk reduction efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.

Located in the city of Morganton, Muddy Creek #15 (Cooke) is an integral part of the local government's infrastructure, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between federal and state agencies, such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service, in ensuring the safety and efficiency of water management systems. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Muddy Creek #15 play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities downstream. With its solid construction and satisfactory condition, this dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management practices in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

370

River Or Stream

Allen Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

230

Structural Height

46

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

46
       
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.