Mountain Lake Dam, formerly known as Murray Lake Dam, is a private earth dam located in Ennice, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1973 for recreational purposes, the dam stands at a structural height of 41.4 feet and has a hydraulic height of 35 feet. With a storage capacity of 746 acre-feet, the dam impounds Crab Creek and covers a surface area of 34.1 acres, serving as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Despite its recreational appeal, Mountain Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been rated in poor condition, with the last inspection conducted in March 2021. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. With a drainage area of 2,266 square miles and a maximum discharge of 119 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and highlights the importance of sustainable dam maintenance and management practices to mitigate potential risks and ensure continued safety for the surrounding community and environment.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship will find Mountain Lake Dam a fascinating case study. Its location in Alleghany County, North Carolina, and its association with Crab Creek underscore the interconnectedness of water management, natural landscapes, and human recreation. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue to evolve, this private dam serves as a critical focal point for assessing risk, implementing regulatory measures, and promoting sustainable water resource management practices in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
350 |
River Or Stream |
Crab Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
34.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
2266 |
Nid Storage |
746 |
Structural Height |
41.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
New River Near Galax
|
861cfs |
Chestnut Creek At Galax
|
33cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
New River At Ivanhoe
|
1170cfs |
Fisher River Near Copeland
|
177cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Raven Knob
|
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Site F
|
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Stone Mountain State Park
|
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Cliffview campground
|
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Site E
|
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Site A
|