Gaither Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gaither Pond Dam, located in Mills River, North Carolina, serves as a vital recreational resource along Osborne Branch.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 21 feet with a hydraulic height of 18 feet, providing storage of up to 6 acre-feet of water. While the dam is primarily used for recreational purposes, it also plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of water in the area.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Gaither Pond Dam is regularly inspected by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program to ensure its safety and stability. The last inspection in May 2018 revealed that the dam meets regulatory standards, although ongoing maintenance and risk management measures are essential to mitigate any potential hazards. The dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment status remain unreported, indicating a need for continued oversight and preparedness in case of emergencies.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gaither Pond Dam stands as a significant landmark in Transylvania County. Its role in providing recreational opportunities, regulating water flow, and ensuring public safety underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding environment.

Dam Length

130

River Or Stream

Osborne Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

402

Nid Storage

6

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.