Asheville 1982 Ash Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Asheville 1982 Ash Basin Dam, also known as Cp&L Ash Pond, is a public utility-owned structure located in Asheville, North Carolina.


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Summary

Completed in 1982, this earth dam has a hydraulic height of 90 feet and a structural height of 95 feet, serving primarily for hydroelectric purposes with a storage capacity of 1400 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary to the French Broad River, the dam covers a surface area of 46 acres and has a drainage area of 70 acres.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment as of February 2018, the Asheville 1982 Ash Basin Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam undergoes state inspections to maintain its integrity. Its emergency action plan status and adherence to guidelines are not specified, but the facility meets the necessary requirements for its operation and poses minimal risk to the surrounding environment and communities.

As a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, the Asheville 1982 Ash Basin Dam plays a crucial role in providing hydroelectric power and managing tailings. Positioned within the Wilmington District of North Carolina's Congressional District 11, this dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and climate-conscious energy production in the region.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

1500

River Or Stream

Trib to French Broad River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46

Hydraulic Height

90

Drainage Area

70

Nid Storage

1400

Structural Height

95

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

95
       
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.