Lake Charles Dam, also known as French Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Macon, North Carolina, near the city of Franklin.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, built on Tessentee Creek-Tr, serves the primary purpose of recreation and stands at a hydraulic height of 21 feet with a structural height of 27 feet. It has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 7 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.5 acres.
Despite its recreational focus, Lake Charles Dam poses a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last assessment in January 2018. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program and undergoes regular inspections every two years. The Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers has jurisdiction over the dam, with no federal agency ownership or funding associated with its operation.
With its scenic location and importance for recreational activities, Lake Charles Dam serves as a vital water resource in the region. However, its high hazard potential underscores the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of both the dam structure and the surrounding community. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find the dam's design and operational details intriguing, as well as the regulatory oversight and risk management measures in place to safeguard its integrity.
Dam Length |
287 |
River Or Stream |
Tessentee Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
247 |
Nid Storage |
16 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |