Busbee Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Busbee Reservoir Dam, also known as Biltmore Company Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Buncombe, North Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1914, this Earth type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for visitors to enjoy various water activities. With a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, the dam boasts a length of 708 feet and a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, making it an essential water resource within the region.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Busbee Reservoir Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Despite being categorized as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 deemed it to be in fair condition. With an inspection frequency of every two years, measures are in place to mitigate risks and address any potential hazards promptly. While no spillway information is provided, the dam's association with the tributary to Sweeten Creek highlights its significance in the local hydrological system.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the historical and functional significance of Busbee Reservoir Dam in Biltmore, North Carolina. As a vital structure for recreational activities and water storage, the dam's presence underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts, the dam continues to serve its purpose while ensuring the safety and well-being of the surrounding community.

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

708

River Or Stream

Tributary to Sweeten Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

800

Nid Storage

48

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.