Ross Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ross Pond Dam, also known as Freeman Lake Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Mathis Chapel Environs, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1978 by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS), this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 905 feet in length. The primary purpose of Ross Pond Dam is irrigation, serving a drainage area of 205 acres and providing a storage capacity of 241.6 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential, Ross Pond Dam has not been rated for its condition, with the last inspection taking place in 2009. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, indicating potential risks in the event of a significant overflow. While the risk assessment for the dam is considered moderate, there are currently no emergency action plans in place, raising concerns about the ability to respond effectively in case of a dam failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and safety of dams may find Ross Pond Dam an intriguing case study. With a history dating back to the late 1970s and a lack of recent inspections and emergency preparedness, this structure highlights the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of critical water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

905

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Drainage Area

205

Nid Storage

241.6

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.