Old Blowing Rock Water Supply is a crucial water resource in Boone, North Carolina, serving as a primary source of water supply for the local community.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, completed in 1958, stands at a hydraulic height of 32.3 feet and a structural height of 33.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet. Situated on Flat Top Branch, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and a drainage area of 340 acres.
Owned by the local government and regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Old Blowing Rock Water Supply is classified as a high hazard potential dam. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is in satisfactory condition, as per the latest inspection in March 2021. With a spillway type not specified and a maximum discharge capacity of 725 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle varying water flow conditions and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. Overall, Old Blowing Rock Water Supply is a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in Watauga County.
With Virginia Foxx as the representative for the congressional district, Old Blowing Rock Water Supply exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, governance, and environmental stewardship. As a state-regulated and permitted dam with a history of safe operations, the facility underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance in ensuring water security and mitigating potential risks. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Old Blowing Rock Water Supply is key to advancing sustainable water management practices and building resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
325 |
River Or Stream |
Flat Top Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
32.3 |
Drainage Area |
340 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
33.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
34 |
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62cfs |
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24cfs |
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42cfs |
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173cfs |
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218cfs |
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| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Old Johns River Road
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Price Park Campground
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Goshen Creek
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Honey Bear Campground
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Julian Price - Blue Ridge Parkway
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Julian Price
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