Muddy Creek Dam #2-C (Ashworth) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Muddy Creek Dam #2-C (Ashworth) in McDowell, North Carolina, stands as a critical water resource infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the North Muddy Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1972, this earth dam with a structural height of 36.5 feet serves as a vital flood risk reduction measure, offering a storage capacity of 874 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 86 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose aligns with its design, focusing on flood risk reduction to safeguard the surrounding communities in Morganton.
With a significant hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, Muddy Creek Dam #2-C (Ashworth) ensures the safety and security of the area despite its moderate risk level. It is regulated and inspected by the NCDEQ's Dam Safety Program, reflecting a commitment to maintaining its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates further enhance its flood mitigation capabilities, highlighting its importance in managing water resources and climate impacts in the region.
As a key component of the local government's water resource management strategy, Muddy Creek Dam #2-C (Ashworth) stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures. Its location, design, and operational features underscore its critical role in protecting the community from potential inundation events, showcasing the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in mitigating climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
659 |
River Or Stream |
North Muddy Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.5 |
Nid Storage |
874 |
Structural Height |
36.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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Muddy Creek Dam #2-C (Ashworth)