Brushy Creek Dam #8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brushy Creek Dam #8, located in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

Built in 1965, the dam stands at a height of 28 feet with a hydraulic height of 24.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet for off-stream of North Toe River. The dam's primary purpose is classified as "Other," serving various functional roles in water resource management.

With a Hazard Potential rating of "High," Brushy Creek Dam #8 undergoes regular inspections every two years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite not being condition-rated, the dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in January 2020, indicating a proactive approach to emergency preparedness. The dam's association with the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers further highlights its significance in the region's water resource management.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Brushy Creek Dam #8 to be a crucial infrastructure in Avery County, North Carolina, contributing to flood control, water supply, and environmental protection. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight underscore the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to mitigate potential risks and ensure the sustainability of water resources in the region. As a privately owned structure with a history dating back to the 1960s, the dam serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance the need for water management with environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1717

River Or Stream

Off Stream of North Toe River

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

24.5

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

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.