Neels Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Neels Pond, also known as Francis Long Neel Dam, is a privately owned water resource located in Newberry, South Carolina.


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Summary

This recreational dam was completed in 1955 and stands at 18 feet tall with a length of 440 feet. With a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, the pond covers an area of 6 acres and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities.

Despite its picturesque setting, Neels Pond poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, adding to the risk factor. The last inspection in 2017 revealed the need for improvements, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

Neels Pond's location on TR-Welch Creek makes it a key feature in the area's water resource management. With the potential for flooding and other risks, stakeholders must work together to implement effective risk management measures and emergency action plans to safeguard both the dam and the environment it supports. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Neels Pond serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between recreation and responsible stewardship of our natural resources.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-WELCH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Nid Storage

59

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.