Marchman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Marchman Lake Dam, located in Dunns Rock, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth-type dam has a hydraulic height of 13.5 feet and a structural height of 17.5 feet, with a total length of 185 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 10 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.5 acres.

The dam, situated on the East Fork French Broad River, is regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. The last inspection was conducted in May 2015, with the dam being assessed as in satisfactory condition despite its high hazard potential. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, but efforts have been made to prepare for emergency situations.

Overall, Marchman Lake Dam provides a recreational outlet for the local community while also being a critical structure that requires ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks associated with its high hazard potential. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of such dams is essential in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

185

River Or Stream

E Fork French Broad-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Hydraulic Height

13.5

Nid Storage

16

Structural Height

17.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.