Craggy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Craggy Dam, located in Buncombe County, North Carolina, is a captivating example of a gravity dam primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1904, this historic structure stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet within its concrete and masonry walls. The dam, situated on the French Broad River, plays a crucial role in harnessing the river's energy to generate hydroelectric power for the region.

Managed by a private owner, Craggy Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a low hazard potential with a moderate risk assessment. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 598 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 14,352 cubic feet per second. With its multi-arch core design and rock foundations, Craggy Dam is a testament to engineering excellence and sustainable water resource management in the region, serving as a vital component of the local hydroelectric infrastructure.

Despite its age, Craggy Dam continues to be a reliable source of renewable energy, contributing to the region's power supply while maintaining a strong safety record. With its picturesque location and historical significance, this gravity dam on the French Broad River is a must-visit for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and natural beauty in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1904

Dam Length

706

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

French Broad

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

13

Drainage Area

966

Nid Storage

380

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

13
       
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.