Upper Tanglewood Dam, also known as Blatt Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Murphy, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1974, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation purposes on the Valley River-Tr. With a hydraulic height of 27.5 feet and a structural height of 31 feet, it offers a maximum storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 18 acre-feet.
Despite its recreational significance, Upper Tanglewood Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of February 2018. The dam has a history of state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, indicating a commitment to ensuring public safety and compliance with regulatory standards. While the dam lacks certain features such as spillways and outlet gates, its association with the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers suggests a broader oversight framework for its operation and maintenance.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Upper Tanglewood Dam would find its location in Cherokee County, North Carolina, along with its historical significance and potential risks intriguing. The dam's proximity to the Valley River-Tr and its role in providing recreational opportunities make it a focal point for environmental conservation efforts and ongoing monitoring. With the dam's outdated inspection records and lack of emergency action plans, there is a call for improved risk assessment and management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and natural environment from any potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
235 |
River Or Stream |
Valley River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
27.5 |
Drainage Area |
155 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
Valley River At Tomotla
|
147cfs |
Nottely River Near Blairsville
|
66cfs |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
269cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
117cfs |
Cheoah River Nr Bearpen Gap Nr Tapoco
|
136cfs |
Nantahala River Near Rainbow Springs
|
139cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hanging Dog
|
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Fires Creek Hunt Camp
|
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Fires Creek Hunters Camp
|
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State Line Campground
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Rough Ridge Campground
|
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State Line
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