Sapphire Lower Dam, located in Transylvania, North Carolina, along the Horsepasture River-Tr, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1993 for the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
With a hydraulic height of 29.7 feet and a structural height of 35.4 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2.1 acres. It is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets state inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements.
Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the last inspection of Sapphire Lower Dam was conducted in March 2014, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently undetermined, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address any potential risks and ensure effective emergency response protocols. Overall, Sapphire Lower Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of dam infrastructure with regulatory oversight and risk management in a picturesque recreational setting.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
245 |
River Or Stream |
Horsepasture River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.7 |
Drainage Area |
134 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
35.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Wintergreen Campsite
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Indian Camp Campsite
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Buck Fields
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Bearcamp Creek Campsite
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Bear Creek Campsite
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Heath Pine Ridge Campsite
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Headwaters To Sloan'S Bridge Crossing, Crossing Of Sc 107
Sloan'S Bridge Crossing To 1/4 Mile Above The Walhalla Fish Hatchery
1/4 Mile Above The Walhalla Fish Hatchery To 1/4 Mile Below The Walhalla Fish Hatchery
1/4 Mile Below Walhalla Fish Hatchery To Boundary Of Chattooga Wsr
Burrels Ford to Lick Log Branch (Section 1)