Wayne Wells Dam, located in Murphy, North Carolina, on Palmer Branch, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
The dam has a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a structural height of 41 feet, with a length of 160 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 49 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 3 acres. The dam poses a low hazard potential and was last assessed to be in fair condition as of January 2020.
Owned and regulated by the state of North Carolina, Wayne Wells Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam does not have associated structures or locks, and its maximum discharge capacity is 120 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is essential for recreational purposes in the area and contributes to the local water resource management.
With a historical completion date and years modified unknown, Wayne Wells Dam continues to serve as a vital recreational asset in Cherokee County. It is situated within the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and is overseen by state and federal agencies to ensure its safe operation and maintenance. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Wayne Wells Dam in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the importance of its regulatory compliance and safety measures.
Dam Length |
160 |
River Or Stream |
Palmer Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
41 |
Valley River At Tomotla
|
157cfs |
Nottely River Near Blairsville
|
70cfs |
Nantahala River Near Rainbow Springs
|
144cfs |
Ocoee River At Copperhill
|
273cfs |
Cheoah River Nr Bearpen Gap Nr Tapoco
|
134cfs |
Tellico River At Tellico Plains
|
128cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hanging Dog
|
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Fires Creek Hunt Camp
|
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Fires Creek Hunters Camp
|
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State Line Campground
|
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Rough Ridge Campground
|
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State Line
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