Laurel Lake Dam, also known as McGaha Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Boylston, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1963, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 45 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet, providing ample water resources for the surrounding area. Situated on Sutton Creek, the dam offers a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
Despite its recreational benefits, Laurel Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition, as of the last assessment in May 2018. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards. With a capacity to store 166 acre-feet of water and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region while providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors to enjoy.
With its close proximity to Nashville District and oversight by state agencies like NCDEQ, Laurel Lake Dam stands as a vital structure in Transylvania County. The dam's critical role in water management, combined with its recreational appeal, underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability. As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore the area, Laurel Lake Dam serves as a focal point for appreciating the intersection of human infrastructure and natural beauty in North Carolina's diverse landscape.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
312 |
River Or Stream |
Sutton Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Structural Height |
45 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
45 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Davidson River Recreation Area
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Davidson River Campground
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Davidson River
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White Pines Group Campground
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WF-3
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North Mills River
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South Fork From Confluence With Pigeon Br To Nf Boundary
North Fork From Bottom Of Spillway Of Hendersonville Reservoir To Confluence With South Fork
Nf Boundary To Confluence With North Fork
Mills River From Confluence Of North/South Forks To Confluence With Foster Creek
Dark Prong From Headwaters To Confluence East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
East Fork From Us Highway 276 To Confluence Of Dark Prong And Yellowstone Prong