Mint Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mint Lake Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, situated on Mint Branch, has a structural height of 23 feet and a hydraulic height of 16.6 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 18 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2 acres, the dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various recreational activities.

Although not state regulated, Mint Lake Dam has been inspected for safety, with the last inspection conducted in January 2012, revealing a fair condition assessment. The dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety. Despite not being under state jurisdiction, the dam plays a key role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community in Cozads Mill.

With its tranquil setting and potential for outdoor activities, Mint Lake Dam serves as a valuable resource for water and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As a privately owned structure with a focus on recreation, the dam stands as a testament to the blending of nature and human ingenuity in creating sustainable water resources for the enjoyment of all.

Dam Length

225

River Or Stream

Mint Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

16.6

Nid Storage

18

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.