Powhatan Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Powhatan, located in Buncombe, North Carolina, is a concrete dam completed in 1942 by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

This structure serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond in the Bent Creek area, with a primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats. With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 79 acre-feet, Powhatan plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region.

Despite its age, Powhatan remains an important feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts, providing recreational opportunities and supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna in the surrounding area. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Forest Service, ensuring that it meets safety standards and maintains its functionality. With a high hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Powhatan is closely monitored to prevent any potential threats to the local community and ecosystem.

The dam's uncontrolled spillway and proximity to Bent Creek make it a vital component of the region's water management system. As a Federal-owned structure, Powhatan demonstrates the intersection between environmental protection and recreational activities, highlighting the delicate balance that must be maintained to preserve water resources for future generations. Climate enthusiasts can appreciate the role of Powhatan in supporting biodiversity and water sustainability in Buncombe, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

126

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

BENT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

79

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.