North Fork Broad River Ws Str # 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Stephens, Georgia, the North Fork Broad River WS Str # 2, also known as Wards Pond Dam, was completed in 1955 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

This earthen dam stands at a height of 41 feet with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a length of 490 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 152 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this structure is flood risk reduction along the Denmans Creek, serving the Boydville Community in Georgia.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in March 2017. Despite being state-regulated and inspected, it is not permitted by the state and lacks enforcement measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, posing minimal risk to the surrounding area. While an emergency action plan is not currently in place, the North Fork Broad River WS Str # 2 presents a relatively stable and secure flood control structure for the community.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the impacts of aging infrastructure on water management systems, the North Fork Broad River WS Str # 2 serves as a crucial asset in mitigating flood risks in Stephens, Georgia. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, this dam continues to provide valuable flood control measures along the Denmans Creek. As discussions around risk management and infrastructure maintenance evolve, the resilience of structures like Wards Pond Dam will be essential in safeguarding communities against the challenges of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

DENMANS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

474

Nid Storage

152

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.