Grandfather Small Pond Dam

Avery, North Carolina· Built 1900· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Grandfather Small Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length280 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage3 acre-ft
Normal Storage2 acre-ft
Surface Area1 acres
Drainage Area999,999 sq mi
Year Completed1900 (126 years old)
NID IDNC05687

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: March 22, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Grandfather Golf & Country Club

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Grandfather Small Pond Dam?

Grandfather Small Pond Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Grandfather Small Pond Dam?

Grandfather Small Pond Dam is owned by Grandfather Golf & Country Club (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Grandfather Small Pond Dam built?

Grandfather Small Pond Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Grandfather Small Pond Dam?

Grandfather Small Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Grandfather Small Pond Dam last inspected?

Grandfather Small Pond Dam was last inspected on March 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.