Lake Susan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Susan Dam, located in Black Mountain, North Carolina, is a private dam primarily used for recreation on Flat Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 20 feet, this concrete dam was completed in 1925 and offers a surface area of 2.7 acres. With a maximum storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and normal storage at 13 acre-feet, the dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed as satisfactory in condition.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Lake Susan Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's last inspection took place in March 2019, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every two years. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam serves as a crucial recreational resource in the area, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.

Despite its age, Lake Susan Dam continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for water enthusiasts in Buncombe County. Overlooking the picturesque surroundings, the dam stands as a testament to both historic engineering and modern regulatory oversight, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all who visit this beloved recreational spot on Flat Creek.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

410

River Or Stream

Flat Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

2.7

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

20

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.