Mead Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mead Lake, also known as Balsam Lake Dam, is a federal water resource located in TUCKASEEGEE, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the Forest Service, this concrete dam was completed in 1950 with a height of 42 feet and a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Mead Lake is for Fish and Wildlife Pond, with recreational activities also being supported.

The dam is situated on WOLF CREEK and has a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 2 feet. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in September 2017, and it was found to be in "Not Rated" condition. Additionally, the dam has undergone modifications in 2008 for mechanical improvements.

Overall, Mead Lake is a vital water resource in Jackson County, North Carolina, serving as a habitat for fish and wildlife while offering recreational opportunities for visitors. With its history dating back to 1950, the dam continues to be regulated and inspected by the Forest Service to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

Years Modified

2008 - Mechanical

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

120

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

WOLF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

42
       
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.