Located in Alleghany, North Carolina, the Air Bellows Dam is a private earth dam constructed in 1974 primarily for recreational purposes on Swamp Creek.
Wind
Humidity
The dam stands at a height of 35 feet with a hydraulic height of 34 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. With a surface area of 2.8 acres, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Despite being privately owned, the Air Bellows Dam is subject to regular state inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the last inspection in December 2019. While it does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, the dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community in Sparta and surrounding areas.
As a significant feature along Swamp Creek, the Air Bellows Dam not only enhances the local landscape but also contributes to the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its tranquil reservoir and surrounding natural beauty, the dam serves as a valuable recreational asset while maintaining a low hazard potential and ensuring public safety for all water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
Swamp Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Nid Storage |
42 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
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254cfs |
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987cfs |
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67cfs |
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|
36cfs |
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423cfs |
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|
57cfs |