Catfish Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Catfish Lake Dam, located in Mariposa, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a low hazard potential.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of earth, has a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, providing a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. While not state-regulated, Catfish Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in September 2017.

This dam, situated along Branch Creek-Tr, serves a primary purpose not specified in the data, emphasizing its role in managing water resources within the region. Despite its modest size, Catfish Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing water storage for irrigation, recreation, and wildlife habitat. With a history not available in the dataset, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of private infrastructure in supporting water management efforts.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Catfish Lake Dam, its significance in the broader context of water infrastructure becomes apparent. With notable features such as its earth construction and low hazard potential, this dam symbolizes the diverse array of structures that contribute to sustainable water management practices. By understanding the role of dams like Catfish Lake in balancing water needs and environmental concerns, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the complexities of water resource management in North Carolina and beyond.

River Or Stream

Branch Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.