Tanglewood Forest Dam Lower Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Tanglewood Forest Dam Lower, also known as Tanglewood Dam #2, is a privately owned earth dam located in Murphy, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1965, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes along Brittian Creek. Standing at a structural height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 26.8 feet, it has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres.

Despite its recreational significance, Tanglewood Forest Dam Lower poses a high hazard potential with an unsatisfactory condition assessment. The dam is under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. The last inspection conducted in January 2020 identified the need for improvement, highlighting the importance of maintaining the structural integrity of the dam to mitigate potential risks.

Given its critical role in water resource management and climate resilience, stakeholders and enthusiasts should closely monitor the condition of Tanglewood Forest Dam Lower. With its proximity to residential areas and the potential impact of a breach on downstream communities, it is essential to prioritize necessary upgrades and maintenance to enhance the dam's safety and functionality. By staying informed and engaged in the regulatory processes, individuals can contribute to the sustainable management of this vital infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

240

River Or Stream

Brittian Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

26.8

Drainage Area

281

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.