Mccurdy Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Watts Lake Dam Smith Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
McCurdy Dam, located in Cooleemee, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure for irrigation purposes along the Big Branch-Tr river.
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Summary
Completed in 1986, this earth dam boasts a structural height of 25 feet and a hydraulic height of 21 feet, with a length of 240 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 23 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 75 square miles, with a maximum discharge capacity of 166 cubic feet per second.
Managed by a private entity, McCurdy Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of its last assessment in January 2020. The dam has a history of periodic inspections with an average frequency of 2 years, ensuring its integrity and safety for the surrounding community. With its crucial role in irrigation and water resource management, McCurdy Dam stands as a significant feature in the local landscape of Alexander County.
Situated within the Wilmington District and owned privately, McCurdy Dam not only serves as a key irrigation source but also plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and ensuring water security in the region. With its strategic location and high hazard potential, ongoing maintenance and oversight are essential to uphold the dam's functionality and safety. As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, McCurdy Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike, highlighting the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in managing water resources effectively.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
240 |
River Or Stream |
Big Branch-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
75 |
Nid Storage |
23 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Lower Little River Nr All Healing Springs
|
18cfs |
Yadkin River At Wilkesboro
|
423cfs |
Reddies River At North Wilkesboro
|
67cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
42cfs |
Hunting Creek Near Harmony
|
93cfs |
Yadkin River At Elkin
|
706cfs |
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.
Mccurdy Dam
W. Kerr Scott Reservoir At Dam Nr Wilkesboro