Lake Talmadge Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Talmadge Dam, located in Telfair, Georgia, serves primarily for irrigation purposes and was completed in 1954 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
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Summary
This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet and a drainage area of 470 acres, the dam helps manage water flow in the region.
Although the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition is currently not rated. The last inspection took place in May 2017, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite the moderate risk assessment, the dam is not regulated by the state, and no enforcement measures are in place. The spillway type is uncontrolled, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled, indicating the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Talmadge Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management. As a privately owned structure with a history dating back to the mid-20th century, the dam's design and construction by the SCS highlight the importance of proper maintenance and inspection protocols. With its moderate risk assessment and unregulated status, the dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in balancing water resource management with environmental conservation and safety considerations.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
625 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
UNKNOWN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
470 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Turnpike Creek Near Mcrae
|
0cfs |
Ocmulgee River At Lumber City
|
2080cfs |
Oconee River Near Mount Vernon
|
2230cfs |
Altamaha River Near Baxley
|
3480cfs |
Oconee River At Dublin
|
2420cfs |
Ohoopee River Near Reidsville
|
105cfs |
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.
Lake Talmadge Dam