Freedom Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Freedom Lake, also known as J&J Dam, is a private water resource located in Buncombe County, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the NC Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 37 feet with a hydraulic height of 30.9 feet. The dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a serene getaway for water and climate enthusiasts in the Asheville area.

With a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment as of March 2017, Freedom Lake presents an element of adventure and challenge for those who visit. The lake has a normal storage capacity of 16 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 28 acre-feet, providing ample space for water activities and relaxation. Additionally, the dam has a maximum discharge rate of 600 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and regulation of water flow in the area.

Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure that it meets safety standards. Despite its high hazard potential, Freedom Lake continues to be a popular spot for recreation, offering a unique blend of adventure and relaxation for visitors seeking to connect with nature in North Carolina.

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

Hominy Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

30.9

Nid Storage

28

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

37
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.