Located in Maggie Valley, North Carolina, the Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam stands as a crucial structure for irrigation purposes in the region.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam has a hydraulic height of 37 feet and a structural height of 39 feet, with a length of 180 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 15 acre-feet and serves an area with a drainage area of 81 square miles.
This privately owned dam on Hemphill Creek-Tr is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam is inspected biennially to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 413 cubic feet per second, making it an essential component of the local water resource infrastructure.
Despite its moderate risk assessment, the Cataloochee Ski Slope Dam plays a crucial role in the irrigation needs of the area. With its stone core and soil foundation, the dam is designed to withstand the pressures of its surroundings while providing vital water resources for agricultural purposes. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding and monitoring the condition of dams like Cataloochee is essential for ensuring the sustainability and safety of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1998 |
Dam Length |
180 |
River Or Stream |
Hemphill Creek-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
0.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
81 |
Nid Storage |
15 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
41
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#41 Caldwell Fork
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40
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#40 Big Hemlock
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Balsam Mountain Campground
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Balsam Mountain - Great Smoky Mountains
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