Headwaters Dam, located in Ashe, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 2001, the dam stands at a structural height of 47 feet with a hydraulic height of 43 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 78.6 acre-feet. The dam spans a length of 440 feet and covers a surface area of 4.18 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the region.
Despite its recreational significance, Headwaters Dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment as of August 2020. The dam is regulated and inspected by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring compliance with state regulations for safety and maintenance. With a drainage area of 255 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 133 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should be aware of the importance of maintaining Headwaters Dam to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding communities. Regular inspections, emergency preparedness plans, and risk management measures are essential to safeguarding the dam and its associated structures. As a key recreational and water management asset, Headwaters Dam underscores the intersection of human activities with natural resources and the need for sustainable practices in dam operations and maintenance.
Year Completed |
2001 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.18 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
255 |
Nid Storage |
78.6 |
Structural Height |
47 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
47 |
South Fork New River Near Jefferson
|
254cfs |
Watauga River Near Sugar Grove
|
63cfs |
S F Holston River Near Damascus
|
218cfs |
Elk Creek At Elkville
|
44cfs |
M F Holston River Near Meadowview
|
101cfs |
Yadkin River At Patterson
|
24cfs |