Beacon Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Beacon Reservoir Dam, located in Buncombe, North Carolina, stands as a testament to the engineering marvels of water resource management.


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Summary

This private-owned concrete dam on the Swannanoa River-Tr boasts a structural height of 50 feet, demonstrating its importance in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential hazards. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam remains in a not-rated condition since its last inspection in 2007, showcasing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

While Beacon Reservoir Dam serves a primary purpose classified as "Other," its significance in water storage and management cannot be understated. The dam's specific dimensions and storage capacities are not readily available, underscoring the need for further data collection and analysis. However, its presence in the Wilmington District of North Carolina highlights its role in regulating water flow and mitigating flood risks in the region. As a non-Federal structure, the dam's operations and oversight fall under the purview of state regulatory agencies, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between private owners and governing bodies in ensuring its safety and functionality.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the intricacies of Beacon Reservoir Dam, questions surrounding its construction year, storage capabilities, and emergency preparedness measures come to the forefront. With a high hazard potential and a lack of recent condition assessments, the dam presents a compelling case for increased attention and investment in monitoring and maintenance protocols. By harnessing the power of data and technology, stakeholders can work together to enhance the resilience of Beacon Reservoir Dam and uphold its critical role in water resource management amidst a changing climate landscape.

River Or Stream

Swannanoa River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

50
       
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.