Bowman Bluff Dam

French Broad River· Henderson, North Carolina· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Bowman Bluff Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length210 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage24 acre-ft
Normal Storage17 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area308 sq mi
NID IDNC03059

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 6, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Cummings Cove Company LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bowman Bluff Dam?

Bowman Bluff Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bowman Bluff Dam?

Bowman Bluff Dam is owned by Cummings Cove Company LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Bowman Bluff Dam?

Bowman Bluff Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Bowman Bluff Dam last inspected?

Bowman Bluff Dam was last inspected on January 6, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.