Stafford Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Stafford Pond Dam, located in Ingold, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure regulated by the NC Department of Environmental Quality Dam Safety Program.
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Summary
The dam, primarily used for irrigation purposes on Gaddy Branch, stands at a hydraulic height of 9.8 feet and a structural height of 14.5 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 51 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 157 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in January 2021 rated it as fair. Regular inspections, with a frequency of every 2 years, ensure that the structure remains safe and operational. The last inspection date was in January 2021, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks. With a history of serving both irrigation and recreation purposes, Stafford Pond Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in Sampson County.
As an Earth-type dam with a length of 700 feet, Stafford Pond Dam has a surface area of 12.9 acres and drains a watershed area of 485 acres. The dam's maximum discharge capacity is 856 cubic feet per second, providing essential water control during periods of heavy rainfall. With its strategic location and importance for local water management, Stafford Pond Dam stands as a noteworthy example of infrastructure supporting sustainable water resource practices in North Carolina.
Dam Length |
700 |
River Or Stream |
Gaddy Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
9.8 |
Drainage Area |
485 |
Nid Storage |
157 |
Structural Height |
14.5 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black River Near Tomahawk
|
593cfs |
Northeast Cape Fear River Near Chinquapin
|
624cfs |
Cape Fear R At Wilm O Huske Lock Nr Tarheel
|
2030cfs |
Cape Fear R At Lock #1 Nr Kelly
|
2480cfs |
Big Swamp Nr Tarheel
|
103cfs |
Neuse River Near Goldsboro
|
895cfs |
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.
Stafford Pond Dam