Craggy Dam, located in Buncombe County, North Carolina, is a captivating example of a gravity dam primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
French Broad River At Asheville
|
963cfs |
Swannanoa River At Biltmore
|
71cfs |
Ivy River Near Marshall
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69cfs |
French Broad River At Marshall
|
1120cfs |
Beetree Creek Near Swannanoa
|
5cfs |
French Broad River Near Fletcher
|
787cfs |
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