Watson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Freeman Lake Dam Fitzgerald Pond Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Watson Lake Dam, located in Laurens, Georgia, was completed in 1960 and serves as a vital irrigation structure in the region.
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Summary
Owned and operated privately, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches for 505 feet, with a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. The dam is designed as a buttress structure and has a spillway type of 'Uncontrolled', indicating its low hazard potential.
Despite being uninspected since 2004, Watson Lake Dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment. While it is not state-regulated, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of Georgia and is subject to state inspections. The dam's primary purpose is irrigation, with a normal storage capacity of 63 acre-feet, and it has not been modified in recent years.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Watson Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and role in supporting agricultural activities in the area. With its unique design and location, this dam offers a glimpse into the importance of water management and infrastructure in sustaining local communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
505 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oconee River At Dublin
|
1070cfs |
Oconee River Near Oconee
|
895cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
1340cfs |
Buffalo Creek At Ga 272
|
54cfs |
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
11cfs |
Oconee River At Avant Mine
|
614cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Watson Lake Dam