Nelson Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Nelson Pond Dam, located in Tattnall, Georgia, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a height of 16 feet and a length of 435 feet, providing a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment.
Although the dam is unregulated by the state and lacks certain safety features such as controlled spillways and outlet gates, it still serves as a popular spot for water enthusiasts in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the structural integrity of the dam. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of maintaining and assessing dams like Nelson Pond Dam becomes increasingly vital for sustainable water management practices in Georgia.
Dam Length |
435 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
1140 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
218cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
4930cfs |
Canoochee River Near Claxton
|
83cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1610cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2940cfs |
Altamaha River At Doctortown
|
5210cfs |
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.
Nelson Pond Dam