Straus Lake Dam, also known as Ecusta Dam, is a private structure located in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1954, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 27 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, the dam spans 650 feet across Allison Creek, with a surface area of 5.3 acres and a drainage area of 75 square miles.
The dam is state-regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2020 deemed it to be satisfactory. The last inspection in January 2020 revealed no major concerns, and an emergency action plan has been prepared to address any potential risks associated with the dam.
Straus Lake Dam's location in Transylvania County, alongside the picturesque Allison Creek, makes it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The dam's role in providing recreational opportunities while also being a vital water resource highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
650 |
River Or Stream |
Allison Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
75 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
27 |
Dark Prong From Headwaters To Confluence East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
South Fork From Confluence With Pigeon Br To Nf Boundary
Yellowstone Prong From Headwaters To Confluence With East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
East Fork From Us Highway 276 To Confluence Of Dark Prong And Yellowstone Prong
Nf Boundary To Confluence With North Fork
North Fork From Bottom Of Spillway Of Hendersonville Reservoir To Confluence With South Fork