Ross Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Buncombe, North Carolina, the Ross Creek Dam serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Ross Creek.


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Summary

This rockfill dam stands at a structural height of 27.8 feet and has a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet, providing protection to the surrounding area in Asheville. With a surface area of 3.5 acres, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating potential hazards in the region.

Although last inspected in May 2009, the Ross Creek Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential. While it is not under state regulation or permitting, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk reduction. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events along the Ross Creek.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of dams and their impact on the environment, the Ross Creek Dam stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction measures. With its strategic location in Asheville and its critical role in managing water resources, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for the community's safety and well-being.

Dam Length

153

River Or Stream

Ross Creek

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

3.5

Nid Storage

15

Structural Height

27.8

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.