Nelson Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nelson Pond Dam, located in Screven, Georgia, was completed in 1955 and serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

This privately owned Earth dam stands at 16 feet high and spans a length of 630 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 116 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Nelson Pond Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Georgia and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a drainage area of 0 acres and a normal storage capacity of 67 acre-feet. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, its risk management measures are deemed moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to protect both the dam and the surrounding environment.

With its picturesque location in the Bests Bridge Environs, Nelson Pond Dam offers a tranquil retreat for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities while also serving as a vital component in managing water resources in the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate and utilize this dam, it is crucial to prioritize its maintenance and safety to ensure its continued functionality and contribution to the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Nid Storage

116

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.