Capitola
Key Takeaway
Capitola is classified as low hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 9 ft (taller than 1.9% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 205 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 205 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 25 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,350 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | NC06533 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
French Broad Electric Membership Corporation
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Marshall
Madison, NC
Low Hazard 37 ftChestnut Hill Dam
Madison, NC
High HazardRoss Dam
Madison, NC
High HazardZenina Lakes Upper Dam
Madison, NC
Low HazardIvy River
Madison, NC
Low Hazard 62 ftRidgeway Dam
Buncombe, NC
Significant HazardPorter Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardMashburn Dam
Madison, NC
Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Capitola?
Capitola is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Capitola?
Capitola is owned by French Broad Electric Membership Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Capitola built?
Capitola was completed in 1910, making it 116 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Capitola?
Capitola serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Capitola?
Capitola has a dam height of 9 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Capitola last inspected?
Capitola was last inspected on July 12, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.