Ross Pond Dam (Wheeler Ave.) Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Ross Pond Dam (Wheeler Ave.) in Fitzgerald, Georgia, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1986 by Ross & Sons.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, with a primary height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 17 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 16 acres, with a drainage area of 85 acres.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been rated for its condition. The last inspection took place in October 2016, with a designated inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, posing minimal risk to downstream areas.
Located in Ben Hill County, Georgia, the Ross Pond Dam is essential for local water resource management and environmental preservation efforts. Its historical significance, combined with its functional design and purpose, makes it a valuable asset for the community and a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to learn more about dam infrastructure and management practices.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
1230 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
16 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
85 |
Nid Storage |
136 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Ross Pond Dam (Wheeler Ave.)