Cane River Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Situated in Riverside, North Carolina, the Cane River Dam stands as a testament to human engineering and ingenuity.


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Summary

Owned privately, this concrete structure serves primarily for recreational purposes along the picturesque Cane River. With a structural height of 45 feet, the dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential, yet its condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the last inspection in May 2016.

The Cane River Dam, nestled in Yancey County, showcases the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam is inspected regularly to ensure its integrity and safety. Its location along the Cane River provides an idyllic setting for outdoor activities, highlighting the importance of sustainable water use and conservation in a changing climate.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Cane River Dam serves as a focal point for exploring the balance between human development and environmental preservation. With its recreational purpose and high hazard potential, the dam underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management in the face of potential climate-related challenges. As a non-Federal structure, the Cane River Dam represents a microcosm of the broader issues surrounding water resources and climate adaptation in North Carolina and beyond.

River Or Stream

Cane River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

45
       
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.