Robert Free Pond #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Robert Free Pond #1 is a privately owned fish and wildlife pond located in Orrville, Alabama, along Big Swamp Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1997 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 11.2 feet high and spans 1100 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 91.5 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the pond is to support fish and wildlife habitats, making it a valuable resource for the local ecosystem.

Despite its high hazard potential, Robert Free Pond #1 is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment. With a moderate risk level, the pond serves as a critical water resource in the area, covering a surface area of 17 acres and draining a 0.1 square mile watershed. While the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet, it lacks an emergency action plan and updated contact information, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures.

As a part of the Mobile District in Alabama, Robert Free Pond #1 plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and preserving the natural environment. With its scenic location and significant storage capacity, this pond serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

11.2

River Or Stream

BIG SWAMP CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

91.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

11
       
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.