Sapphire Valley Golf Course Dam, also known as Mud Creek Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Sapphire, North Carolina, within Jackson County.
Wind
Humidity
The dam regulates Mud Creek and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a hydraulic height of 14.4 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, it has a normal storage capacity of 2 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 15 acre-feet. Despite its importance for recreation, the dam has a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in March 2021.
Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Its location, close to the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, presents additional oversight and potential support in case of emergencies. The dam's condition and hazard potential highlight the need for ongoing risk assessment and management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the structure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed and engaged with developments related to the Sapphire Valley Golf Course Dam can help promote responsible stewardship of this essential infrastructure.
With its unique position within the picturesque landscape of Sapphire Valley, the dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and recreational activities. As discussions around dam safety and climate change intensify, the future management and maintenance of the Sapphire Valley Golf Course Dam will be crucial in safeguarding both the environment and the community. By understanding the complexities and challenges associated with this structure, water resource and climate enthusiasts can advocate for sustainable practices and policies that prioritize the long-term well-being of this essential water resource.
Dam Length |
160 |
River Or Stream |
Mud Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
14.4 |
Drainage Area |
335 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
22 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Bearcamp Creek Campsite
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Wintergreen Campsite
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Indian Camp Campsite
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Buck Fields
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Bear Creek Campsite
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Heath Pine Ridge Campsite
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