Msd Treatment Plant Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Msd Treatment Plant Dam, located in Alexander, North Carolina, is a crucial structure owned by the local government and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1967, this rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 75 feet and has a hydraulic height of 65 feet, serving as a key component for water resource management in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 276 acre-feet and a total storage of 385 acre-feet, this dam plays a significant role in controlling the flow of the French Broad River-Tr and providing essential water supply to the surrounding communities.

Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in 2015, the Msd Treatment Plant Dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. The dam has an emergency action plan in place, with updated emergency contacts and guidelines to ensure that proper measures are taken in case of any unforeseen events. With its critical role in water management and flood control, the Msd Treatment Plant Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for the region, highlighting the need for ongoing oversight and risk management to safeguard the surrounding areas from potential hazards.

As a key structure for water resource management in Buncombe County, the Msd Treatment Plant Dam remains a focal point for climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates. With its strategic location along the French Broad River-Tr and its significant storage capacity, this rockfill dam serves as a critical asset for ensuring water supply and flood protection in the region. As efforts continue to maintain and enhance the dam's condition, it stands as a testament to the crucial role of infrastructure in addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring the resilience of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

French Broad River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

65

Nid Storage

385

Structural Height

75

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

75
       
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.