Spence Millpond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Spence Millpond Dam, located in Pelham, Georgia, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.


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Summary

Built in 1900, this earth dam stands at a height of 7.2 feet with a hydraulic height of 9.4 feet, providing a storage capacity of 194 acre-feet. The dam spans 470 feet in length and is situated on Spence Mill Creek in Grady County.

The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, and it has an uncontrolled outlet gate. Despite its age, the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection was conducted in November 2016, with an inspection frequency of every five years. The condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated," indicating the need for further evaluation to determine the dam's structural integrity and maintenance requirements.

Given its historical significance and role in providing essential services such as fire protection and water storage, the Spence Millpond Dam warrants continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the rich history and engineering behind this dam, as well as the ongoing efforts to manage its risk and safeguard the surrounding community from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

7.2

River Or Stream

SPENCE MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

9.4

Nid Storage

194

Structural Height

9.4

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

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.