Forrest Lake Dam, also known as Branson Lake, is a private dam located in Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1952, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet with a hydraulic height of 8 feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, providing a surface area of 33 acres and a drainage area of 3200 acres. With a storage capacity of 222 acre-feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.
Despite its recreational appeal, Forrest Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in June 2019. The dam is state-regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. With its close proximity to Branson Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 132 cubic feet per second.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Cumberland County will find Forrest Lake Dam to be a significant structure, providing not only recreational opportunities but also serving as a vital component of the local watershed. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and functionality, the dam remains a key feature in the management of water resources in the area, showcasing the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
550 |
River Or Stream |
Branson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33 |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Drainage Area |
3200 |
Nid Storage |
222 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
Little River At Manchester
|
263cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
1860cfs |
Rockfish Creek At Raeford
|
104cfs |
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
7cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
125cfs |
Cape Fear River At Lillington
|
711cfs |