Mission Ready Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mission Ready Dam, located in Graham, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this Earth-type dam on Flat Branch has a structural height of 76 feet and a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet. Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in November 2018, the dam poses a high hazard potential, warranting a biennial inspection frequency to ensure its safety and functionality.

Owned and operated by a private entity, Mission Ready Dam serves as a recreational hub in the area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and enjoyment. The dam's proximity to the Nashville District adds to its significance in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore its features and impact on the surrounding environment. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, ongoing regulatory oversight and enforcement by state agencies ensure its compliance with safety standards and regulations.

As a key feature on Flat Branch, Mission Ready Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in Graham, North Carolina. With a focus on recreation, the dam provides valuable storage capacity and flood control measures, contributing to the overall environmental and recreational landscape of the area. Continuous monitoring and maintenance efforts, alongside emergency preparedness measures, are essential to mitigate the high hazard potential associated with the dam and ensure its long-term sustainability for the benefit of the community and the environment.

River Or Stream

Flat Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

76

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

76
       
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.