Deer Park Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Park Lake in Mitchell, North Carolina, is a private water reservoir nestled in the picturesque city of Penland.


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Summary

Owned and regulated by the NCDEQ's Dam Safety Program, this earth dam structure stands at a hydraulic height of 73.3 feet, with a structural height of 81 feet. Its primary purpose is recreational, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

With a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet and a normal storage of 275 acre-feet, Deer Park Lake covers a surface area of 10 acres and is fed by Branch Creek. The dam's hazard potential is classified as significant, but its condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the last inspection in May 2019. While the dam lacks specific details such as construction year or spillway type, its serene surroundings and recreational offerings make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a tranquil water resource amidst North Carolina's natural beauty.

Deer Park Lake's structural integrity, coupled with its significant hazard potential, highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of its surrounding community and visitors. As a recreational haven in the heart of Mitchell County, this private water reservoir serves as a vital resource for both locals and tourists, inviting them to appreciate the delicate balance between water management and environmental stewardship in a changing climate.

Dam Length

345

River Or Stream

Branch Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

73.3

Nid Storage

320

Structural Height

81

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

81
       
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.