Mallard Lake Dam Upper Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mallard Lake Dam Upper, also known as Teal Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Forsyth, North Carolina.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1967, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a hydraulic height of 18.6 feet and a structural height of 23.1 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 47 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.3 acres.

Despite its fair condition assessment in 2020, Mallard Lake Dam Upper poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular state inspection, regulation, and enforcement by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program. The dam is situated along the Muddy Creek-Tar River and has a drainage area of 364 square miles. While no spillway type or width is specified, the dam has had no reported modifications over the years and does not feature outlet gates or associated structures.

With its rich history dating back over five decades, Mallard Lake Dam Upper remains a significant landmark in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike. Its unique design and location offer a glimpse into the engineering and environmental considerations of dam construction, making it a valuable site for study and appreciation. As efforts to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam continue, the ongoing management and maintenance of this structure serve as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Muddy Ck-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.3

Hydraulic Height

18.6

Drainage Area

364

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

23.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.