Mother Earth Dam Lower, nestled in the picturesque city of Blantyre, North Carolina, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1948, this privately owned dam serves as a hub for recreational activities, offering a tranquil oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With a structural height of 20.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, the dam harnesses the power of Gash Creek to create a reservoir with a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet.
Ensuring the safety of the surrounding community, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam has been assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections conducted to maintain its structural integrity. In the event of an emergency, the dam owners are prepared to activate an Emergency Action Plan, further highlighting their commitment to safeguarding both the environment and local residents.
As a vital part of the region's water management infrastructure, Mother Earth Dam Lower not only serves as a recreational hotspot but also as a symbol of the harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. Its serene waters and lush surroundings invite visitors to appreciate the beauty of the natural world while also recognizing the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
200 |
River Or Stream |
Gash Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
723 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Structural Height |
20.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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