Brush Creek Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brush Creek Lower Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure regulated by the state's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

Situated along Brush Creek, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet. Primarily built for recreational purposes, the dam spans 110 feet in length and covers an area of 8 acres. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2015 rated it as fair.

The dam, managed by the Savannah District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, falls under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. While the last inspection in 2015 deemed the structure to be in fair condition, its hazard potential is considered high, necessitating regular inspections every two years. Despite the lack of specific information on the dam's spillway type or outlet gates, its storage capacity, and recreational purpose make it a notable feature in the Cullasaja area.

With its scenic location along Brush Creek, Brush Creek Lower Dam serves as a vital recreational spot for residents and visitors in Macon County. While the dam's fair condition and high hazard potential warrant continued monitoring and maintenance, its role in providing recreational opportunities underscores the importance of balancing water resource management with public enjoyment of natural landscapes. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, keeping a close eye on the stewardship and regulation of structures like Brush Creek Lower Dam is essential for ensuring both safety and sustainability in our changing environment.

Dam Length

110

River Or Stream

Brush Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8

Nid Storage

215

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.