Ravenswood Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ravenswood Lake Dam, located in Flat Rock, North Carolina, is a privately-owned structure on the French Broad River-Tr.


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Summary

With a structural height of 14.5 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes. Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state inspections, with the last inspection conducted in February 1989, revealing a fair condition assessment.

The significant hazard potential of Ravenswood Lake Dam underscores the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain key details such as completion date and dam length, its fair condition assessment suggests that it remains stable and functional. While the dam may not be state regulated or permitted, the presence of emergency action plans and risk management measures could further enhance its safety and resilience in the face of potential hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique characteristics of Ravenswood Lake Dam offer insight into the diverse landscape of dam infrastructure in North Carolina. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, this private earth dam presents both opportunities and challenges in managing water resources effectively while mitigating potential risks associated with dam failure. By staying informed and advocating for responsible dam stewardship, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation and sustainable management of these vital water resources for future generations.

River Or Stream

French Broad River-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

14.5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.