Gillespie Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gillespie Pond Dam, also known as Mitchell Pond Dam #6, is a private dam located in Pineville, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 68 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, offering a tranquil spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding Four Mile Creek-Os river and stream.

Despite being privately owned, Gillespie Pond Dam is subject to state inspections to ensure its safety and structural integrity. The dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated in fair condition as of its last assessment in October 2018. With a drainage area of 429 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 99 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience can appreciate the significance of this dam in the local ecosystem.

As a recreational structure in Mecklenburg County, Gillespie Pond Dam offers visitors a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a prime location for observing the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics. While not under federal regulation, the dam's maintenance and inspection remain important aspects to ensure its continued safe operation and contribution to the surrounding environment. Passionate individuals interested in water resource management and climate adaptation can find inspiration in the sustainable use of this dam for recreational and environmental purposes.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1500

River Or Stream

Four Mile Creek-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

429

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
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.