Bent Creek Ranch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Buncombe, North Carolina, the Bent Creek Ranch Dam stands as a private entity along the Wesley Branch.


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Summary

With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a structural height of 20 feet. The dam spans 200 feet in length, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

While the dam's hazard potential is classified as high, its condition assessment remains unrated, indicating a need for further inspection and evaluation. The last inspection was conducted in March 1995, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. Despite its lack of state regulatory oversight, the Bent Creek Ranch Dam serves as a vital resource for the local community, offering opportunities for recreational activities and enjoyment of the surrounding natural beauty.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Bent Creek Ranch Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable management and maintenance practices. With its idyllic location and potential risks, this dam represents a unique intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, calling for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to protect both the dam and the surrounding ecosystem for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Dam Length

200

River Or Stream

Wesley Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

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.