Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam

Hemphill Creek-Tr· Haywood, North Carolina· Built 1998· Earth·
High Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1998 and is 28 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 Length180 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage15 acre-ft
Normal Storage13 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area81 sq mi
Max Discharge413 cfs
Year Completed1998 (28 years old)
Year Modified2008
NID IDNC02999

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: April 12, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Phoenix Ski Corporation

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam?

Cataloochee Ski Slope 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 Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam?

Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam is owned by Phoenix Ski Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam built?

Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam was completed in 1998, making it 28 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 Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam?

Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam last inspected?

Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam was last inspected on April 12, 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.