Lake Evens Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Evens Dam, located in Buncombe, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure that serves as a vital resource for recreation in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1962, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, with a length of 191 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 5 acres for recreational activities such as boating and fishing.

Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Lake Evens Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of October 2018, the dam undergoes regular inspections every two years to monitor any potential risks or maintenance needs. Despite its age, Lake Evens Dam continues to provide essential water storage and recreational opportunities for the local community in Bat Cave.

As a key feature on the Upper Flat Creek, Lake Evens Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the surrounding ecosystem. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1250 cubic feet per second, the dam helps regulate water flow and maintain water quality in the area. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment details are yet to be fully documented, the structure remains a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

191

River Or Stream

Upper Flat Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

190

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

32

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.