North Fork Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
North Fork Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 1,309 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 21.7K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 17.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 334 acres |
| Drainage Area | 14,041 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 27,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1954 (72 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2009 |
| NID ID | NC00288 |
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
City of Asheville
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Camp Merrimac Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardLake Tomahawk Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardLake Susan Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardBee Tree Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardLaurel Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardBlack Mountain Reservoir Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardCamp Ridgecrest Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardFlat Top Mountain Lake Dam
Buncombe, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of North Fork Reservoir Dam?
North Fork Reservoir 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 North Fork Reservoir Dam?
North Fork Reservoir Dam is owned by City of Asheville (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was North Fork Reservoir Dam built?
North Fork Reservoir Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 North Fork Reservoir Dam?
North Fork Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was North Fork Reservoir Dam last inspected?
North Fork Reservoir Dam was last inspected on April 1, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.