Mother Earth Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mother Earth Dam Lower, nestled in the picturesque city of Blantyre, North Carolina, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

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
       
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.