Hickory Nut Lower Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hickory Nut Upper Dam Lake Lure Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Hickory Nut Lower Dam, also known as Mirror Lake Lower, is a privately owned structure located in Cliffside, North Carolina.
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Summary
Built in 1974, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 39.5 feet and a structural height of 47.5 feet, with a length of 250 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a tranquil spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of the Broad River.
With a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet, Hickory Nut Lower Dam provides a surface area of 12 acres for recreational activities. Despite being classified as having a "significant" hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of its last inspection in January 2019. The North Carolina Dam Safety Program oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of this dam to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the preservation of its recreational value.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Hickory Nut Lower Dam to be a fascinating structure that adds to the natural beauty of Rutherford County. Its construction has created a serene environment for recreation along the Broad River, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to appreciate the intersection of water management and environmental conservation in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
250 |
River Or Stream |
Broad River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
39.5 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Structural Height |
47.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Hickory Nut Lower Dam