Bear Creek - Gated Spillway and 2 Fuseplugs, located in Tuckasegee, North Carolina, is a hydroelectric dam on the East Fork Tuckasegee River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a length of 384 feet, providing a storage capacity of 34,600 acre-feet. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 214 feet, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Bear Creek dam is equipped with two fuseplugs and a gated spillway to help regulate water levels and prevent potential hazards. The dam has a high hazard potential, reflecting the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure public safety. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone recent condition assessments, highlighting the need for ongoing inspections and risk management measures to address any potential vulnerabilities.
As a crucial component of the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, Bear Creek dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design, this dam plays a vital role in harnessing renewable energy while also safeguarding against the impacts of extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the status of dams like Bear Creek to support sustainable practices and mitigate risks associated with changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
384 |
Dam Height |
8.5 |
River Or Stream |
East Fork Tuckasegee River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
476 |
Nid Storage |
34600 |
Structural Height |
8.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
9 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ralph Andrews County Park
|
||
CH-1
|
||
CH-2
|
||
Sunburst Campground
|
||
Sunburst
|
||
Deep Gap Shelter
|