Ward Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ward Dam, located in Marshall, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure along the French Broad River, serving primarily as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Owned privately, the dam was completed in 2006 and boasts a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite its non-federal regulation status, the dam's high hazard potential necessitates regular inspections, with the last one conducted in February 2020.

The Earth-type dam, with a height of 0 and unspecified volume, plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem by providing habitat for various fish and wildlife species. While lacking federal oversight, the dam's maintenance and safety are ensured through state inspections, with enforcement and permitting falling under state jurisdiction. The dam's strategic location and purpose highlight its significance in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health along the French Broad River.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Ward Dam's contribution to conservation efforts and its role in fostering a thriving aquatic ecosystem. As a privately-owned structure with a focus on supporting fish and wildlife populations, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. Its satisfactory condition, despite the high hazard potential, underscores the commitment to maintaining a safe and functional environment for both wildlife and the surrounding community.

Year Completed

2006

River Or Stream

French Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hazard Potential

High
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.