Lake Kenilworth Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Kenilworth Dam, located in Asheville, North Carolina, is a concrete dam built in 1923 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 44 feet and a structural height of 44 feet, the dam stands as a vital structure along Ross Creek, offering a storage capacity of 215 acre-feet and a surface area of 12 acres. The dam's high hazard potential is mitigated by its satisfactory condition and regular inspections by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program.

Despite being privately owned, Lake Kenilworth Dam falls under state regulation and jurisdiction, with the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality overseeing permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's design and construction reflect a commitment to safety, with a focus on recreation while ensuring proper maintenance to prevent potential risks. The presence of the dam serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Lake Kenilworth Dam, recognizing its role in providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding against potential hazards. The dam's location in Buncombe County, within the Wilmington District, showcases the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to uphold its safety standards, Lake Kenilworth Dam remains a crucial part of the region's water infrastructure, embodying the intersection of nature and technology in the quest for sustainable water resource management.

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

360

River Or Stream

Ross Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

44

Nid Storage

215

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
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.