The Spencer Mountain-Canal Embankment, located in McAdenville, North Carolina, is a historic structure completed in 1905 with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.
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This structure, situated on the South Fork Catawba River, has a dam height of 10 feet and a structural height of 13 feet, with a length of 3,644 feet. The embankment has a storage capacity of 166 acre-feet and a surface area of 69 acres, making it a significant feature in the region's water resource management.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Spencer Mountain-Canal Embankment is recognized as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While the condition assessment is not available, the structure undergoes inspections every three years, with the most recent inspection conducted in August 2017. Emergency action plans are in place, with the last revision made in December 2020, ensuring preparedness in the event of a water resource-related emergency. The embankment serves as a vital component in the region's hydroelectric infrastructure, highlighting the intersection of water resources and climate considerations in sustainable energy production.
Overall, the Spencer Mountain-Canal Embankment represents a blend of historical significance and modern water resource management practices. With its focus on hydroelectric power generation and its strategic location on the South Fork Catawba River, this structure underscores the importance of balancing energy needs with environmental considerations. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates continue to monitor and assess the impact of such structures, the Spencer Mountain-Canal Embankment stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of sustainable water resource management in North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1905 |
Dam Length |
3644 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
South Fork Catawba River |
Surface Area |
69 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
166 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |