2nd Broad River W.S. Structure #11-5 (Lawing) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Union Mills, North Carolina, the 2nd Broad River W.S.


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Summary

Structure #11-5 (Lawing) is a flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1994. This earth dam stands at a structural height of 22.3 feet and a hydraulic height of 9.4 feet, with a storage capacity of 50.1 acre-feet. Situated on Hicks Branch, this dam serves a critical role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the McDowell local government and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, this dam has a significant hazard potential but is currently rated as satisfactory in condition assessment. The last inspection in March 2016 revealed no major concerns, ensuring the safety and functionality of the structure. With a drainage area of 242 square miles and a maximum discharge of 364 cubic feet per second, the 2nd Broad River W.S. Structure #11-5 (Lawing) plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam exemplifies the importance of infrastructure in mitigating flood risks and protecting communities. As a key component of the local water resource system, this structure underscores the collaborative efforts between government agencies and the community to safeguard against potential natural disasters and ensure the sustainable management of water resources in McDowell County, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

465

River Or Stream

Hicks Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Hydraulic Height

9.4

Drainage Area

242

Nid Storage

50.1

Structural Height

22.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.