Moss Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Moss Lake Dam, located in Cleveland County, North Carolina, is a crucial water resource structure designed for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1973, this earth-type dam stands at an impressive structural height of 99 feet, with a hydraulic height of 85 feet, and a length of 840 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 51,032 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 43,520 acres along Buffalo Creek.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Moss Lake Dam is under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With a normal storage capacity of 35,600 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,329 acres, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region. Its association with the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in maintaining water security for the community of Earl Station.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

840

River Or Stream

Buffalo Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1329

Hydraulic Height

85

Drainage Area

43520

Nid Storage

51032

Structural Height

99

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

99
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.