Capitola Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Capitola, a hydroelectric dam located in Marshall, North Carolina, harnesses the power of the French Broad River to generate electricity.


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Summary

Built in 1910, this gravity dam stands at a height of 9 feet and has a length of 500 feet, with a storage capacity of 205 acre-feet. Its multi-arch structure rests on a rock foundation, serving as a key player in the region's energy production.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Capitola boasts a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating. With ten slide gates for outlet control, the dam has a spillway width of none and no lock structures. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for further inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation in the face of changing climate patterns.

As water resources and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Capitola offers a glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, energy production, and environmental risk management. With its historical significance and ongoing role in power generation, this hydroelectric facility stands as a testament to the complex relationship between water resources and sustainable energy practices in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

French Broad

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

1350

Nid Storage

205

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 10

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

9
       
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.