Tobacco Branch Dam, also known as Mitchell Dam, is a private dam located in Bryson City, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program and is designed by the USDA NRCS. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a hydraulic height of 16.2 feet and a structural height of 22.2 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 15 acre-feet.
With a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment deemed fair as of November 2018, the dam poses a moderate risk that is being managed through appropriate measures. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2,106 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area has a drainage area of 434 square miles, making it essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its risk and condition closely.
Overall, Tobacco Branch Dam serves as a vital recreational structure in Graham County, North Carolina, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based leisure. Its location on the Tobacco Branch stream adds to its ecological significance, and ongoing inspections and risk assessments help ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. For enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Tobacco Branch Dam presents a compelling case study in balancing recreational benefits with the need for careful dam operation and maintenance.
Dam Length |
204 |
River Or Stream |
Tobacco Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.2 |
Drainage Area |
434 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
22.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
22 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Tsali Recreation Area
|
||
Tsali
|
||
Tsali Campground
|
||
#78 Double Island
|
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Turkey Creek Campground
|
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#73 Lone Pine
|