Plemmons Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Plemmons Pond Dam, located in Enka, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The dam is regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that it meets stringent safety and environmental standards. With a hydraulic height of 18.1 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 0.3 acres.

Although the dam's condition was assessed as "Fair" during its last inspection in February 2015, it is classified as having a "Significant" hazard potential. The dam is designed as an earth dam and spans a length of 219 feet, providing impoundment for the water flowing from UT to Bill Moore Creek. Despite its private ownership, the dam's compliance with state regulations for permitting, inspection, and enforcement ensures its ongoing safety and environmental sustainability for the surrounding community and ecosystem.

As a focal point for recreational activities in Buncombe County, Plemmons Pond Dam serves as both a scenic attraction and a vital water resource. While its current condition is deemed acceptable, ongoing monitoring and adherence to safety protocols will be crucial in maintaining the dam's integrity and safeguarding the area's water supply and natural habitat for future generations.

Dam Length

219

River Or Stream

UT to Bill Moore Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.3

Hydraulic Height

18.1

Nid Storage

4

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

22
       
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.