Russell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Russell Dam, located in Bat Cave, Buncombe County, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam is situated on the Upper Flat Creek-Tr river and is managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a structural height of 12 feet, the dam has a high hazard potential and was last inspected in May 2009.

While the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," it is important to note that the dam has not undergone any modifications since its completion. Despite not being regulated by the state, regular inspections are conducted to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, indicating the need for emergency preparedness measures to be established.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate may find Russell Dam intriguing due to its recreational purpose and the potential risks associated with its high hazard potential. The dam's location in a picturesque region of North Carolina adds to its appeal, highlighting the importance of maintaining and inspecting such structures to ensure public safety and environmental protection in the face of changing climate conditions.

River Or Stream

Upper Flat Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.