Murray Corriher Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murray Corriher Dam #1, located in Kannapolis, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, with a length of 350 feet. It impounds the Irish Buffalo Creek-Tr and has a normal storage capacity of 38 acre-feet, providing ample water for recreational activities on its 4.4-acre surface area.

Despite being privately owned, Murray Corriher Dam #1 is not regulated by the state and has a low hazard potential, with its condition rated as "Not Rated" as of the last inspection in October 2018. The dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years and does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, its design and construction meet safety standards, ensuring the protection of downstream areas in case of any emergencies.

Overall, Murray Corriher Dam #1 serves as a vital recreational resource in Rowan County, offering a serene water body for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. With its low hazard potential and structurally sound design, the dam provides a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

Irish Buffalo Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.4

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

30

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.