Big Hickory Pond A Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Hickory Pond A, located in Elkin, North Carolina, is a privately owned fish and wildlife pond that also serves recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 2004, is classified as an earth dam with a hydraulic height of 51 feet and a structural height of 53 feet. The pond has a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 61 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres.

Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Big Hickory Pond A has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment in March 2014 rating the dam's condition as satisfactory and its hazard potential as low. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam still poses a risk that needs to be managed effectively. With a drainage area of 13 square miles and a maximum discharge of 62 cubic feet per second, the pond plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and water resource management.

Overall, Big Hickory Pond A is a well-maintained structure that provides valuable habitat for fish and wildlife in the area. Its location in Surry County, along with its recreational benefits, makes it a significant asset to the community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the responsible management of dams like Big Hickory Pond A becomes increasingly important to ensure the safety and sustainability of our natural environment.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

310

River Or Stream

UT to Robertson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

13

Nid Storage

85

Structural Height

53

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

53
       
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.