F. Marsh Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carolina Lake Dam Lawrence Lyerly Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
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Summary
Marsh Pond Dam, located in Carbonton, North Carolina, serves a primary purpose of irrigation and was completed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS. This earth dam, with a structural height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 25 feet, spans 260 feet across Big Governor's Creek and has a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, and it has a low hazard potential with a fair condition assessment as of October 2013.
Owned privately, F. Marsh Pond Dam is not regulated by the state and does not require permitting. Despite being uninspected by state agencies, the dam's inspection frequency is set at 0, indicating a potential need for more regular assessments. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, there is room for improvement in risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Additionally, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status is unclear, highlighting the need for preparedness in case of unforeseen events.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, F. Marsh Pond Dam presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of agricultural water management and dam infrastructure. The dam's location in Moore County, North Carolina, within the Wilmington District of the USACE, offers a valuable case study for understanding the role of private ownership in water resource development. With a focus on irrigation, the dam's design and construction by the USDA NRCS showcase the importance of sustainable water use practices in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
260 |
River Or Stream |
Big Governor'S Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
150 |
Nid Storage |
36 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Flat Creek Near Inverness
|
10cfs |
Tick Creek Near Mount Vernon Springs
|
5cfs |
Deep River At Moncure
|
310cfs |
Little River At Manchester
|
254cfs |
Drowning Creek Near Hoffman
|
169cfs |
Buckhorn Creek Nr Corinth
|
49cfs |
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.
F. Marsh Pond Dam