Mcguire Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stigler Dam Hodge Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mcguire Lake Dam, located in Cullowhee, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that spans 237 feet in length and stands at a structural height of 30 feet.
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Summary
The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 45 acre-feet. Despite its relatively small size, the dam has a high hazard potential, making it essential for regulatory agencies such as NCDEQ's Dam Safety Program to ensure regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures.
The dam, situated on Wayehutta Creek-Tr, is within the jurisdiction of the state and is subject to regulation, permitting, and inspection by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. The most recent inspection in January 2021 deemed the dam's condition satisfactory, but its high hazard potential indicates the importance of maintaining a robust Emergency Action Plan and ensuring that risk management measures are in place. With a history of compliance and satisfactory assessments, Mcguire Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational resource while highlighting the importance of responsible dam ownership and maintenance in the face of evolving climate challenges.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for sustainable water management practices, Mcguire Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that dams play in providing recreational opportunities while also posing potential risks to surrounding communities. By staying vigilant in monitoring dam safety, conducting regular inspections, and implementing effective risk management measures, stakeholders can ensure that dams like Mcguire Lake Dam continue to serve their intended purposes without compromising public safety or environmental integrity in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
237 |
River Or Stream |
Wayehutta Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
45 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ralph Andrews County Park
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Sunburst
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Sunburst Campground
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Mcguire Lake Dam