Lucy's Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lucy's Branch Dam, located in Santeetlah, North Carolina, is a private earth dam primarily built for recreation purposes along Lucy's Branch river.


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Summary

Completed in 1985, this dam stands at a structural height of 28.5 feet with a hydraulic height of 25.5 feet, creating a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2.5 acres, this low hazard dam has a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2013.

Managed by a private owner, Lucy's Branch Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permits or enforcement. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has a maximum discharge of 95 cubic feet per second. The Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees this recreational dam, offering a tranquil getaway for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking adventure in the remote wilderness of Graham County.

As an integral part of the local landscape, Lucy's Branch Dam provides a serene setting for outdoor activities and leisure pursuits. With its peaceful surroundings and idyllic location, this earth dam serves as a valuable resource for residents and visitors alike, showcasing the beauty and resilience of North Carolina's natural environment in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Lucy's Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

28.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.