Located in Asheville, North Carolina, the Starnes Cove Lower Dam is a privately owned earth dam that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
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963cfs |
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|
71cfs |
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|
171cfs |
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|
69cfs |
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|
787cfs |
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1120cfs |
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