Wilson Creek Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wilson Creek Lower Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a federal-owned structure on Brooks Creek, serving the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, with a structural height of 30 feet, has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and is managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam is under regular inspection, with the last assessment in January 2013 revealing a poor condition and a high hazard potential.

The dam's location in the Clear Creek Community offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities. However, the outdated condition assessment and lack of recent modifications raise concerns about the dam's safety and long-term sustainability. As climate change continues to impact water resources, stakeholders should prioritize updating the dam's maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of both the structure and surrounding communities.

With its potential risk and historical significance, Wilson Creek Lower Dam presents a unique opportunity for collaboration between federal agencies, local authorities, and community members to develop a comprehensive emergency action plan and implement necessary upgrades. By proactively addressing the dam's maintenance needs and enhancing its resilience to changing environmental conditions, stakeholders can preserve this recreational asset while safeguarding water resources for future generations.

River Or Stream

Brooks Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.