Kellys Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kellys Pond Dam, located in Graingers, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1774.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a hydraulic height of 10 feet and a structural height of 15 feet, serves a primary purpose that falls under the category of "Other." With a storage capacity of 384 acre-feet and a surface area of 70 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Situated on Southwest Creek, Kellys Pond Dam has a drainage area of 36,544 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 116 cubic feet per second. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection took place in December 2020, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water management structure for the community.

With its long history dating back to the 18th century, Kellys Pond Dam stands as a testament to the early efforts to harness and control water resources in North Carolina. As climate change continues to impact the region, it is essential to prioritize the maintenance and upkeep of such structures to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainable management of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1774

Dam Length

1500

River Or Stream

Southwest Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

70

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

36544

Nid Storage

384

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

High

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.