Sweetgrass Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sweetgrass Dam, also known as Appalachian Crest or Broyhill Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Watauga, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Schull's Mill.


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Summary

Completed in 2008, this earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes and spans 740 feet in length. With a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, Sweetgrass Dam has a normal storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for the surrounding area.

Situated on the Boone Fork river, Sweetgrass Dam plays a critical role in water management and recreation in the region. Its hazard potential is rated as high, yet the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory, with regular inspections ensuring its safety. The dam's design and construction fall under state regulations, with the North Carolina Dam Safety Program overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Overall, Sweetgrass Dam stands as a significant landmark in the local water resource infrastructure, contributing to both agricultural sustainability and recreational opportunities in the area.

With its strategic location and functional design, Sweetgrass Dam represents a vital piece of North Carolina's water resource management efforts. Providing irrigation capabilities and recreational opportunities, this private-owned structure demonstrates the importance of sustainable water use in the region. Continual monitoring and maintenance ensure the dam's safety and effectiveness, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.

Year Completed

2008

Dam Length

740

River Or Stream

Boone Fork

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1459

Nid Storage

439

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.