Muddy Creek Dam #3 (Lemon Tree) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Muddy Creek Dam #3, also known as Lemon Tree, is a key infrastructure in Morganton, North Carolina, serving as a vital flood risk reduction measure along Hicks Branch.
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Summary
Owned by the local government and regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 26.5 feet and a structural height of 35.5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a hazard potential rated as high, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Constructed by the USDA NRCS, Muddy Creek Dam #3 is primarily designated for flood risk reduction purposes but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates help manage water flow during high volume events, with a maximum storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2018, the dam remains subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its continued safety and functionality, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks.
Overall, Muddy Creek Dam #3 (Lemon Tree) stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in McDowell County, playing a pivotal role in safeguarding the local area from flood risks. With its high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam's design and construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflect a commitment to water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact the region, the ongoing maintenance and monitoring of this dam will be essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the community it serves.
Dam Length |
244 |
River Or Stream |
Hicks Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
26.5 |
Nid Storage |
240 |
Structural Height |
35.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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Muddy Creek Dam #3 (Lemon Tree)