Lake Kenilworth Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Kenilworth Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1923 and is 103 years old. 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 Length | 360 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 215 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,835 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 41 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1923 (103 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00290 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Lake Kenilworth Commission, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Ross Creek Dam
Buncombe, NC
High Hazard650 Caribou Road Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardLake Craig Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardBusbee Reservoir Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardNolen Pond Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardLong Valley Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
Low HazardBeaver Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardCrowfields Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Kenilworth Dam?
Lake Kenilworth 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 Lake Kenilworth Dam?
Lake Kenilworth Dam is owned by Lake Kenilworth Commission, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Kenilworth Dam built?
Lake Kenilworth Dam was completed in 1923, making it 103 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 Lake Kenilworth Dam?
Lake Kenilworth 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 Lake Kenilworth Dam last inspected?
Lake Kenilworth Dam was last inspected on May 4, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.