Located in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Laurel Lake Dam stands as a crucial structure on the Swannanoa River, serving primarily for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 25.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 23.5 acre-feet. The dam, under private ownership, is regulated and inspected by North Carolina's Dam Safety Program, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Laurel Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The last inspection conducted in March 2019 showed that the dam meets safety guidelines, but emergency action plans have not been updated recently. The surrounding area, with a surface area of 2 acres, could be at risk in case of a dam failure, highlighting the need for continued risk assessment and management measures.
With its serene location and important role in recreational activities, Laurel Lake Dam serves as both a valuable resource and a potential risk to the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the dam's condition, inspection frequency, and emergency preparedness can help ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding environment along the Swannanoa River.
Dam Length |
483 |
River Or Stream |
Swannanoa River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
23.5 |
Structural Height |
25.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Catawba Falls Campground, LLC
|
||
Creekside Mountain Camping
|
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Blue Ridge Parkway Tent
|
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BPW
|
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Curtis Creek Campground
|
||
Curtis Creek
|