Located in McDowell County, North Carolina, Mckenzie Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife preservation.
Wind
Humidity
With a primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond, this Earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 38 feet and a structural height of 41 feet, with a length of 144 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 25 acre-feet and covers an area of 1.5 acres, providing essential habitat for local fauna.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, Dam Safety Program, Mckenzie Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has been assessed as having a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as confirmed during the last inspection in January 2016. Despite its low risk profile, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the surrounding ecosystem and recreational activities in the area.
As part of the Nashville District, Mckenzie Lake Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region, helping to maintain a healthy balance in the local watershed. While primarily serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, the dam also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. With its strategic location near Lake Lure and tributary to Cane Branch, Mckenzie Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in preserving the natural beauty of North Carolina's landscapes.
Dam Length |
144 |
River Or Stream |
trib to Cane Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
70 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
41 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Catawba Falls Campground, LLC
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River Creek Camp Ground
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Creekside Mountain Camping
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Curtis Creek Campground
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Curtis Creek
|
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Lucky Strike Campground
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