Camp Merrimac Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Camp Merrimac Dam, located in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Swannanoa River.


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Summary

The dam has a hydraulic height of 22.9 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, with a length of 372 feet. It has a storage capacity of 10 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 8 acre-feet.

The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections to maintain its satisfactory condition and high hazard potential. The last inspection was conducted in March 2019, with a frequency of every two years. Despite its potential risks, the dam currently meets safety guidelines.

While the dam does not have associated structures or a spillway, it remains an important feature for the local community as a recreational site. With its scenic surroundings and proximity to the Swannanoa River, Camp Merrimac Dam provides a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities while also appreciating the importance of dam safety and regulation.

Dam Length

372

River Or Stream

Swannanoa River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

22.9

Nid Storage

10

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

25
       
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.