Curtis Ensley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Curtis Ensley Dam, located in Buncombe, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

The dam, classified as an Earth-type structure, has a structural height of 18.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, providing a storage capacity of 12 acre-feet. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality.

Even though Curtis Ensley Dam is considered to have a significant hazard potential, its condition was assessed as fair during the last inspection in 2014. The dam has a spillway width and outlet gates data unavailable, but it boasts a surface area of 1.3 acres and a maximum discharge rate of 20 cubic feet per second. The dam's purpose as a recreational resource adds to its value for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the Avery Creek-Tr river and surrounding area.

Despite being privately owned and not falling under state jurisdiction, Curtis Ensley Dam's presence in the Nashville District offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of North Carolina's waterways. With its recreational focus and strategic location, the dam serves as a valuable asset for those interested in water resources and climate-related activities in Buncombe County.

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

Avery Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.3

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

12

Structural Height

18.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

19
       
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.