Smoky Mountain Sanctuary Poa Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Smoky Mountain Sanctuary Poa Dam is a privately owned structure located in Haywood, North Carolina, specifically in the city of Waynesville.


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Summary

This dam, situated along the Farmers Branch river, serves a primary purpose that is categorized as 'Other'. With a hydraulic height of 2 feet and a structural height of 40 feet, the dam spans a length of 134 feet and has a storage capacity of 16 acre-feet.

Although the dam was last inspected in September 2013 and deemed to be in satisfactory condition, it is characterized as having a high hazard potential. The inspection frequency for this dam is every 2 years, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. The state of North Carolina regulates the dam, with the Dam Safety Program under the NC Department of Environmental Quality overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes.

In the midst of the picturesque Smoky Mountains, the Smoky Mountain Sanctuary Poa Dam stands as a vital piece of infrastructure that not only provides water resource management but also poses a significant risk if not properly maintained. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the delicate balance between harnessing natural resources and safeguarding against potential hazards. Its location within a high-risk area underscores the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the surrounding environment.

Dam Length

134

River Or Stream

Farmers Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.4

Hydraulic Height

2

Nid Storage

16

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

40
       
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.