Skomp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Skomp Dam, also known as Brewer Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Cherokee, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 27.5 feet and serves a primary purpose of recreation along the Gold Branch river. With a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet and a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, Skomp Dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, Skomp Dam remains a popular spot for recreational activities in the Hiawassee Dam area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates contribute to its moderate risk assessment rating. Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Skomp Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure public safety and the integrity of the structure.

With its stone core and soil foundation, Skomp Dam presents a unique engineering feat blending natural elements with man-made construction. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of dams like Skomp become increasingly crucial for sustainable water supply and recreation opportunities in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

335

River Or Stream

Gold Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Nid Storage

44

Structural Height

27.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.