Marsh Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marsh Lake Dam, located in Peachland, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1959 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 20 feet and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, this dam has a length of 400 feet and a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Beaver Dam Creek-Os and serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Despite its low hazard potential, Marsh Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in October 2016. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 43 acre-feet and drains an area of 102 square miles. With a maximum discharge rate of 106 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

As an integral part of the local water resource management system, Marsh Lake Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also contributes to flood control and water storage in the area. With its picturesque surroundings and vital role in water management, this dam serves as a significant asset for both the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

Beaver Dam Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

102

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.