Starnes Cove Lower Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Asheville, North Carolina, the Starnes Cove Lower Dam is a privately owned earth dam that serves the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated along Ragsdale Creek, this dam has a hydraulic height of 27.5 feet and a structural height of 32 feet, with a length of 182 feet. While it has a normal storage capacity of 7 acre-feet, it can hold a maximum of 12 acre-feet.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of May 2009, the Starnes Cove Lower Dam has a high hazard potential. This dam has not undergone any modifications or inspections since 2009, raising concerns about its current safety and reliability. Given its proximity to the community and potential risk of failure, it is crucial for the owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of downstream residents and environmental resources.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find the Starnes Cove Lower Dam intriguing due to its location in a picturesque setting and its role in providing recreational opportunities. However, the lack of recent inspections and maintenance highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and management of dams to prevent potential hazards and protect surrounding areas from the impacts of dam failure. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, the safety and upkeep of dams like Starnes Cove Lower Dam will be critical for sustainable water infrastructure and environmental conservation.

Dam Length

182

River Or Stream

Ragsdale Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

27.5

Nid Storage

12

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.