Mars Hill Water Supply Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Mars Hill Water Supply Dam, located in Faust, North Carolina, serves as a crucial water supply resource for the local community.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1958, this Earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 48.5 feet and has a hydraulic height of 40.5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in providing water to residents in the area.

Situated on Big Laurel Creek within Madison County, the Mars Hill Water Supply Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a high hazard potential, the dam underwent its last inspection in June 2014, where it was assessed as being in satisfactory condition. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in November 2009, highlighting the importance of ongoing safety measures and preparedness.

Overall, the Mars Hill Water Supply Dam serves as a critical infrastructure to ensure reliable access to water resources for the local community. With its strategic location on Big Laurel Creek and adherence to state regulatory standards, the dam continues to play a central role in water supply management in the region.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

306

River Or Stream

Big Laurel Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Hydraulic Height

40.5

Drainage Area

535

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

48.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

49
       
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.