Chappells Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Chappells Pond Dam, located in the picturesque surroundings of Chappels Mill in Laurens, Georgia, stands as a testament to early American engineering, having been completed in 1811.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam, primarily constructed for purposes other than flood control or water supply, stretches 370 feet in length and reaches a height of 16 feet, with a storage capacity of 491 acre-feet. Situated on the South Sandy Creek, the dam serves as a vital structure within the local watershed, covering a drainage area of 8,500 acres.
Despite its historical significance, Chappells Pond Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection conducted was in 2004, with a recommended inspection frequency of every 5 years. While the dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, its risk assessment categorizes it as moderate. With its unique design elements and tranquil setting, Chappells Pond Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human ingenuity and natural landscapes in the heart of Georgia.
Year Completed |
1811 |
Dam Length |
370 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Drainage Area |
8500 |
Nid Storage |
491 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
864cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1030cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
49cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
606cfs |
Oconee River At Milledgeville
|
514cfs |
Williamson Swamp Creek At Davisboro
|
52cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Chappells Pond Dam