Lewis Dam, located in Mills River, North Carolina, is a private recreational structure along Osborne Branch, boasting a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 18 feet.
Wind
Humidity
With a storage capacity of 10 acre-feet and a surface area of 1 acre, this earthen dam provides essential water resources for both recreational purposes and environmental conservation in the area. Despite its fair condition assessment as of May 2018, the dam poses a high hazard potential, requiring regular inspections every two years to ensure public safety and the integrity of the structure.
Owned and regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Lewis Dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices in the region. The dam's primary purpose is to provide a safe and enjoyable recreational space for the community while also supporting conservation efforts for the surrounding natural habitats. With a strong emphasis on state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, Lewis Dam demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship in the face of climate change and shifting water resource dynamics.
As a vital component of the local watershed, Lewis Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow, storage, and distribution in Transylvania County. With a focus on risk management measures and emergency preparedness, the dam serves as a model for sustainable water infrastructure development in the region. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates alike can appreciate Lewis Dam's dedication to balancing human recreation with ecological preservation in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Dam Length |
150 |
River Or Stream |
Osborne Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
10 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
18 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Davidson River Recreation Area
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Davidson River Campground
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Davidson River
|
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White Pines Group Campground
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WF-3
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North Mills River
|
South Fork From Confluence With Pigeon Br To Nf Boundary
North Fork From Bottom Of Spillway Of Hendersonville Reservoir To Confluence With South Fork
Nf Boundary To Confluence With North Fork
Mills River From Confluence Of North/South Forks To Confluence With Foster Creek
Dark Prong From Headwaters To Confluence East Fork And Yellowstone Prong
East Fork From Us Highway 276 To Confluence Of Dark Prong And Yellowstone Prong