Robert Free Pond # 11 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Robert Free Pond # 11, located in ORRVILLE, Alabama, is a privately owned Earth dam constructed in 1999 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

This Fish and Wildlife Pond serves as a habitat for various aquatic species in the BIG SWAMP area. The dam stands at 7.8 feet high and has a storage capacity of 93.34 acre-feet, with a surface area of 11.9 acres.

Despite being categorized with a low hazard potential, Robert Free Pond # 11 has a moderate risk assessment due to its condition being "Not Rated" and lacking an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a valve outlet gate. Although it has not been inspected recently, it is crucial for the proper maintenance and monitoring of this structure to ensure its safety and longevity. Additionally, the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Robert Free Pond # 11 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam designed for fish and wildlife preservation. With its modest size and purpose, this Earth dam plays a vital role in supporting the local ecosystem in Dallas County, Alabama. As discussions surrounding water management and conservation continue to gain importance, understanding the role of structures like Robert Free Pond # 11 becomes essential in promoting sustainable practices and protecting our natural resources.

Year Completed

1999

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

7.8

River Or Stream

BIG SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.9

Nid Storage

93.34

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.