Wells Upper (West) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wells Upper (West) is a recreational dam located in Murphy, North Carolina, along the Gold Branch river.


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Summary

The dam has a structural height of 27.9 feet and a length of 423 feet, with a storage capacity of 22 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2013.

Owned by an unspecified entity and not regulated by the state, Wells Upper (West) serves primarily for recreational purposes. The dam does not have any associated structures and is not subject to state permitting or enforcement. The surrounding area offers a surface area of 2 acres for visitors to enjoy, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With its picturesque location and essential role in providing recreational opportunities, Wells Upper (West) stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources and climate in North Carolina. While its hazard potential may be low, the dam's maintenance and condition assessment remain crucial to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors to this scenic spot along the Gold Branch river.

Dam Length

423

River Or Stream

Gold Branch

Surface Area

2

Nid Storage

22

Structural Height

27.9

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.