Grandfather Small Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Grandfather Small Pond, located in Avery County, North Carolina, is a picturesque water resource regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.


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Summary

Built in 1900 for recreational purposes, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and spans a length of 280 feet, providing a serene surface area of 0.5 acres. Despite its small size, the pond has a high hazard potential and undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its satisfactory condition.

Surrounded by the beauty of Banner Elk, Grandfather Small Pond offers a tranquil retreat for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. With a maximum storage capacity of 3 acre-feet and a normal storage of 2 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital recreational spot in the region. While the dam's spillway type and width remain unspecified, the site's risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures are currently lacking information, leaving room for potential enhancements in the future to ensure the safety and longevity of this beloved water feature.

As the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the Grandfather Small Pond, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about any updates regarding its management and regulatory practices. With Virginia Foxx as the congressional representative for the area, efforts to maintain and enhance the pond's infrastructure and environmental impact can be further supported by local advocacy and community engagement. Whether for leisurely activities or conservation initiatives, Grandfather Small Pond offers a valuable opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and protect this natural gem in North Carolina.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

280

River Or Stream

unknown

Surface Area

0.5

Drainage Area

999999

Nid Storage

3

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.