Mcentire Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mcentire Dam, located in McDowell County, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam on Crooked Creek stands at a hydraulic height of 15.7 feet and a structural height of 21.7 feet. With a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a surface area of 8 acres, the dam serves as a recreational site for the local community.

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Mcentire Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in July 2018. With uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, the dam poses a moderate risk level that is being actively monitored. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its completion, it continues to be subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety.

Overall, Mcentire Dam provides a valuable recreational resource in the Marion area, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based leisure. As a crucial part of the local water infrastructure, the dam exemplifies the balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate variability.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

252

River Or Stream

Crooked Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

15.7

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

21.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.