Lake Rugby Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Rugby Dam in Henderson, North Carolina, stands as a significant recreational resource with a rich history dating back to its completion in 1954.


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Summary

The dam, primarily constructed for recreational purposes, boasts an earth-type design with a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 18 feet. Situated on Marston Creek, this dam not only provides a serene setting for water enthusiasts but also serves as a crucial aspect of the region's water resource management.

Managed by a private entity, Lake Rugby Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the dam's significant hazard potential necessitates regular inspections and a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of any unforeseen events. With a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a spillway discharge capacity of 630 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in maintaining water levels and protecting against potential flooding risks.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, the strategic location of Lake Rugby Dam in Asheville underscores its importance in water conservation efforts. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational offerings, this dam not only serves as a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts but also highlights the crucial intersection of water management, climate resilience, and community safety in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Marston Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

18
       
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.